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Alcohol awareness Quiz

How much do you know about alcohol? Try taking the following true- or-false quiz. You may be surprised at how much you already know.

1. Alcohol abuse and dependency are a major health problem in America.

True. Alcohol abuse and dependency are one of the major health problems confronting America today. Alcohol knows no ethnic or income boundaries, it affects every group of people including newborn babies whose mothers drank during pregnancy. In addition, it affects almost every part of your body, from your liver to your stomach, blood, kidneys, and colon.

2. If it takes you more than 2 ounces of liquor to feel "buzzed," you may have a problem with alcohol.

True. This question relates to tolerance, or how much alcohol it takes you to feel drunk. Many studies indicate that if it takes you more than 2 ounces of liquor, you may be drinking too much. If you are concerned, contact your healthcare provider.

3. Alcohol is a stimulant.

False. Alcohol is a depressant. Depressants slow the vital functions of the body, such as heart rate and blood pressure. Even though alcohol may seem to make you more talkative and out-going, it slows your body. That is why it is so important not to drink and drive. Your reaction time is dramatically slowed when you drink. More than 75 percent of all car accidents are alcohol related.

4. Elderly people cannot be alcoholics.

False. Many elderly people have an undetected problem with alcohol. They drink in their homes, and no one may know how much they are drinking. If you are worried about an elderly person who drinks, let them know that you are concerned about their well-being.

5. Teen alcohol abuse is a predictor for adult alcoholism.

True. Teenagers who start drinking at a young age are at an increased risk to develop alcoholic problems. The best advice is to discourage teen drinking. Many teens drink due to peer pressure. Talk to your children directly about alcohol use. Remember to set an example. If you have a problem with alcohol, it is likely that your children will also. Try to get help if you are worried about this problem. There are many resources available in every community to help with alcohol issues.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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