Alcoholism

Rise of Alcoholism in the United States

The Rise during and since World War II in the number of persons in the United States who classify as chronic alcoholics has caused questioning and concern throughout the American community. Published estimates by responsible authorities indicate that some 750,000 Americans now are suffering from severe bodily ills or mental disorders which are the direct result of excessive drinking over long periods. An additional 3,000,000 Americans habitually drink to the point of intoxication and thus stand in danger of becoming chronic alcoholics in future years.

Present information on the size of the alcoholic group is part of the knowledge gained in investigations of the last decade into methods of dealing with alcoholism. The Research Council ...