Literature and historyAlcoholism is a disease characterized by factors such as a strong craving for alcohol, continued use despite past harm, inability to limit alcohol consumption, symptoms of withdrawal when you stop drinking and the need to increase the amount consumed to feel the effects (CDC, frequently asked questions). It is estimated that over 76 million people worldwide suffer from an alcohol consumption problem (greenfacts.org). The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) conducted a study in 2005 that showed that alcohol abuse can begin as early as the eighth grade. The NIAAA study showed that 11% of eighth graders are involved in binge drinking. By the time the student reaches 12th grade, the study shows that 29% of their peers are also binge drinking. The same report also showed that 19.5% of eighth graders had gotten drunk at least once in their lives. By 2007 these numbers had increased; 16% of 8th graders and 44% of 12th graders reported drinking (CDC, Quick Stats). An article from the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) states that “the earlier young people start drinking and using drugs, the more likely they are to become addicted . . . . [and] alcoholism is hereditary.” Studies have also shown that young adolescents who drink are more likely to develop substance abuse problems. Age is a determining factor in future alcohol and drug problems (SAMHSA). One study found that young adolescents were 47% more likely to develop alcoholism, and nearly half of participants who developed alcohol dependence began drinking at age 16 or younger (NIH). Other studies have found that 10% of kids aged 9 to 10 have already started drinking alcohol, and nearly a third of underage drinkers...... half of the paper... Scientific facts about alcohol: How many people are affected by alcohol? Retrieved from http://www.greenfacts.org/en/alcohol/l-2/01-number-people-affected.htmNational Crime and Prevention Council. Dangers of drinking. (n.d.) Retrieved from http://kentuckyconstableassociation.com/Forms/Educational/drinking.pdfNational Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2006). Alcohol alert. Retrieved from http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/AA67/AA67.pdfNational Institutes of Health. (2006). Early alcohol use is linked to a higher lifetime risk of alcoholism. Retrieved from http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/NewsEvents/NewsReleases/earlydrinking.htmSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2006). A comprehensive plan to prevent and reduce alcohol consumption among minors. Retrieved from http://www.stopalcoholabuse.gov/media/underagedrinking/pdf/underagerpttocongress. pdf