Despite being freely available and legal in the majority of countries, alcohol remains one of the most destructive substances.
Alcohol misuse causes three million deaths every year and plays a role in more than 200 diseases and injuries.
One of the reasons alcohol is consistently cited as dangerous is not only due to its widespread use, but also because of the harm it inflicts on family, friends and colleagues.
When weighing up the damage alcohol can do to life expectancy, health, relationships and society, studies suggest public health strategies and legislation may need to be adjusted to prevent further casualties.
Source:Broadcastergh.com