Alcohol use disorders in women

Abstract

PREVIEW Alcohol use disorders are a significant problem among women in the United States. The epidemiologic factors, physiologic effects, psychosocial and medical consequences, and detection and management of these disorders in women differ from those in men. Primary care physicians are in a unique position to identify, educate, and counsel women with alcohol problems and to refer them for treatment. In this article, Drs Cyr and McGarry discuss the consequences of drinking in women and outline ways in which physicians can guide them to the help they need.