Alcohol Overuse is Abuse

In the months following the sudden death of singer Amy Winehouse, speculation focused on the likelihood of a drug overdose. However, a coroner’s inquest revealed that the 27 year-old died from an acute alcohol overdose. Her BAC at autopsy was over five times the legal limit for driving in the U.K. – well into the danger zone where fatal alcohol poisoning can occur. The toxicology report indicated no illegal substances were found in her system; however, police noted the presence of two empty vodka bottles near her body.

The take-away lesson from this tragic event is that alcohol is a legal beverage which poses no imminent danger to millions whose use can be characterized as moderate and responsible. However alcohol overuse can have severe consequences. For example, the Centers for Disease Control cites the following research:

• Genetic mutations – The membranes of cells are easily penetrated by alcohol and mutations can occur within the DNA of gene cells with prolonged alcohol use. In addition, heavy alcohol consumption can contribute to the spread of internal cancer because it promotes accelerated cell division and growth.
• Weakened immune systems – Excessive alcohol intake significantly reduces the body’s ability to ward off disease by hindering the production of healthy white blood cells, while limiting the capacity of lymphocytes to kill bacteria. In addition, high alcohol intake depletes the nutrients necessary to strengthen and maintain the immune system.

Hormone related cancers – According to CDC research, a woman’s risk for the development of breast cancer tumors increases with excessive