New Web Site Aims To Reduce Alcohol Problems

Based on results of a NIAA survey of 43,000 U.S. adults, Rethinking Drinking offers single-day and weekly low-risk limits for men and women. For men the limits are no more than four drinks on any single day and 14 drinks per week.

For women the limits are no more than three drinks on any day and seven per week. For people who exceed these limits, about 1 in 4 already has alcoholism or alcohol abuse, and the rest are at increased risk for these and other problems.

"We know that many heavy drinkers are able to change on their own," said Mark Willenbring, M.D., director of NIAAA's Division of Treatment and Recovery Research. "Rethinking Drinking is a convenient, low-cost way to provide the required information and tools for those able to change before they develop symptoms."

"People who have more severe alcohol involvement will require professional help, and starting with Rethinking Drinking may help them make the decision to seek help at an earlier stage in the disease process. We think Rethinking Drinking will be used in many different settings, such as doctor's offices, colleges, workplaces, the criminal justice system and pastoral counseling."