At a Glance

Research shows that alcohol use and misuse among women are increasing. While alcohol misuse by anyone presents serious public health concerns, women who drink have a higher risk of certain alcohol-related problems compared to men. To make informed decisions about alcohol use, it is important that women be aware of these health risks and of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025 for adult women of legal drinking age—they can choose not to drink or to limit intake to 1 drink or less in a day, when alcohol is consumed. Drinking less is better for health than drinking more. Some individuals should avoid alcohol completely, such as those who are pregnant or might be pregnant.