Today is National Alcohol Screening Day (and April is Alcohol Awareness Month). In recognition of that, Military Pathways, a Department of Defense (DoD) funded initiative, is encouraging service members and their families to take a free, anonymous online alcohol assessment in an effort to raise awareness on the consequences of at-risk drinking and the signs of an alcohol problem. The screenings are available online at www.DrinkingIQ.org as well as at events held at military installations worldwide.
"Occasional alcohol use can cause few if any problems. However, at-risk or heavy drinking can impact all aspects of a service member's life, including health and family," says Lt. Col. Hans Ritschard, Force Health Protection and Readiness Programs, director of Psychological Health Strategic Operations. "Screening is the first step in assessing whether someone should reduce alcohol consumption or get help in doing so."
Consequences of at-risk drinking:
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Injuries. Drinking too much increases your chances of being injured or even killed. Alcohol is a factor in about 60% of fatal burn injuries, drownings, and homicides; 50% of severe trauma injuries and sexual assaults; and 40% of fatal motor vehicle crashes, suicides, and fatal falls.
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Health problems. Heavy drinkers have a greater risk of liver disease, heart disease, sleep disorders, depression, stroke, and several types of cancer. They may have problems managing diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions.
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Birth defects. Drinking during pregnancy can cause brain damage and other serious problems in the baby. Because it is not yet known whether any amount of alcohol is safe for a developing baby, women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not drink.
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Alcohol use disorders. Generally known as alcoholism and alcohol abuse, alcohol use disorders are medical conditions that doctors can diagnose when a patient's drinking causes distress or harm. In the United States, about 18 million people have an alcohol use disorder. (Source: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 2010)
In addition to the online screenings, military installations worldwide will be holding in-person education and awareness events. Educational materials, promotional items including posters and sports water bottles with the DrinkingIQ logo and website, and screening forms are available throughout the year. To learn more or to find an event near you, go to www.MilitaryPathways.org.