Health Risks of Alcohol and Other Drugs Alcohol The following information on health risks are from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Excessive alcohol use causes significant harm in the United States. From 2020-2021, it led to about 178,000 deaths and 4 million years of potential life lost each year, shortening lives by an average of 24 years. About 4,000 people under the age of 21 die from excessive alcohol use each year. Two-thirds of alcohol related deaths are from chronic conditions developed from drinking alcohol over time, approximately 117,000 each year. One-third of alcohol related deaths were from binge drinking or drinking too much on one occasion, approximately 61,000 each year. The Dietary Guidelines define moderate drinking as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men and do not recommend that non- drinkers start drinking. Excessive alcohol use can cause immediate and long-term health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, digestive problems, several types of cancer, mental health issues, memory and learning problems, social challenges, and alcohol dependence. Reducing alcohol consumption lowers the risk of these harms. Cannabis/Marijuana The following information on health risks is from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Marijuana is the most commonly used drug in the United States and can have a range of effects on the body and brain. About 3 in 10 users develop a cannabis use disorder. The risk of developing cannabis use disorder is greater for people who begin to use cannabis before 18. Frequent or high-dose use can impair attention, memory, and learning, and may cause disorientation, anxiety, paranoia, or temporary psychosis. Long-term use increases the risk of mental health challenges, including schizophrenia, or psychosis. Smoking marijuana can harm lung tissues, damage small blood vessels, and increase the risk of bronchitis and respiratory symptoms, which often improve after quitting. Higher THC concentrations and concentrated forms, such as dabbing or edibles, can intensify these effects. MDMA The following information on health risks from the National Institute on Drug Abuse: MDMA (ecstasy or Molly) is usually taken as a capsule, tablet, or liquid. “Molly” is often sold as pure powder, but may contain other substances such as synthetic cathinones (“bath salts”). Some users combine MDMA with alcohol or marijuana. MDMA increases dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, producing heightened energy, mood, empathy, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. Effects last about 3–6 hours, and high doses can impair the body’s temperature regulation, potentially causing organ failure or death. After use, individuals may experience irritability, anxiety, depression, sleep problems, memory and attention difficulties, and reduced sexual interest. 15 — Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
