The Concept of Alcoholism - 1260 Words

Alcoholism is currently reputed to be one of the major health and social problems of our time (Robinson, 1977, p. 60); and yet there is no agreement on its definition or etiology. Consequently we do not know how to prevent, treat or deal with the social and medical consequences associated with it. That we do not have a clear understanding of the nature of alcoholism can be attested to by the fact that there are now said to be over 100 definitions of the term alcoholism (Madden, 1973, p. 43) and 30 different types of alcoholics (Paul, 1973). The lack of consensus among members of the professional and lay communities concerning the nature of alcoholism and the proliferation of new concepts and publications in the field has†¦show more content†¦(Selzer,2006) Alcoholism and Diabetes Drinking to excess, for example, can help to cause diabetes. ( NHS Choices website. Diabetes: the facts) There are three main ways drinking alcohol to excess can be a factor in causing diabetes: 1. Heavy drinking can reduce the body’s sensitivity to insulin, which can trigger type 2 diabetes. 2. Diabetes is a common side effect of chronic pancreatitis, which is overwhelmingly caused by heavy drinking. 3. Alcohol contains a huge amount of calories – one pint of lager can be equivalent to a slice Of pizza. So drinking can also increase your chance of becoming overweight and your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Low levels of alcohol could potentially provide some level of protection against developing diabetes. According to a review of 15 previous studies (in 2005) into the link between diabetes and alcohol, ‘moderate drinkers’ (who drank between one and six units per day) were a third less likely to develop type two diabetes than either people who didn’t drink alcohol or those who drank heavily. This is thought to be because low to moderate levels of alcohol actually make the body more sensitive to insulin. Doctors usually advise diabetics that they can safely drink alcohol in moderation. So, if you have diabetes and drink, it’s very important to stay within the governments lower risk guidelines. It’s also important to eat aShow MoreRelatedEssay on Should Alcoholism Be Considered a Disease?1282 Words   |  6 PagesShould Alcoholism Be Considered a Disease? Many articles have been written which ask the question: Is alcoholism a disease or not? We will look at both sides of this issue, see what the experts have to say and come to realize that alcoholism should be considered a disease. In 1849, Swedish physician, Dr. Magnus Huss coined the term â€Å"alcoholism† to describe a diseased condition caused by excessive consumption of alcohol. Also in 1849, a French doctoral candidate, M.Gabriel, first used the termRead MoreAlcoholism : Is Alcoholism A Disease?929 Words   |  4 PagesAlcoholism has raised many debates over the truth of its nature. 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