Alcoholism: A life-altering disease Published May 30, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Joseph Boswell 92nd Air Refueling Wing ADAPT office FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- How do you recognize an alcohol problem in a co-worker, friend, or loved one? Alcoholism is a disease that causes a person to continue using alcohol despite alcohol-related problems. These problems affect job performance, health and relationships, and can cause financial or legal problems. An estimated 14 million people in the United States have abused alcohol or are considered alcoholics. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, more men than women are alcoholics or have experienced alcohol-related problems. Here are some questions to consider regarding alcoholism: - Has someone close to you been criticized for their drinking habits? Do they become annoyed when the drinking habits are mentioned? - Do you know someone you think should cut down on drinking? - Do you know someone who has bad feelings or guilty thoughts after drinking? - Do you know someone who takes a drink the morning after drinking to get rid of a hangover or to steady nerves? - Do you know someone who remembers having a few drinks but doesn't remember what happened afterwards? - Do you know someone who drinks six or more beers within a few hours? - Do you know someone who drinks more alcohol than they intend to or drinks for a longer time than they intend to? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, someone you know may have the potential for an alcohol problem. If you answered "yes" to more than one, an alcohol problem probably already exists. If you think you or someone you know has an alcohol problem seek help by contacting the Alcohol Drug Abuse Prevention & Treatment (ADAPT) office at 247-2731 for services or a referral.