National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

A new study supported by the National Institutes of Health shows that individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) are less likely to receive antivirals for hepatitis C, despite current guidelines recommending antiviral treatment regardless of alcohol use. Direct-acting antiviral treatment is highly effective at reducing serious illness and death among individuals with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, a condition that...

Un nuevo estudio avalado por los Institutos Nacionales de la Salud demuestra que las personas con trastorno por consumo de alcohol (o AUD en inglés) tienen menos probabilidades de recibir medicamentos antivirales para la hepatitis C, a pesar de que las guías actuales recomiendan el tratamiento antiviral independientemente del consumo de alcohol. El tratamiento antiviral de acción directa es altamente...

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) requires enhanced monitoring and reporting for NIAAA-supported clinical trials that are rated as greater than minimal risk (as defined in federal regulations at 45 CFR 46.102(i) and 21 CFR 50.3(k) ). The purpose of this guidance document is to clarify risk level definitions and NIAAA’s monitoring and reporting expectations for all...

The older adult population is increasing rapidly. Alcohol use among older adults is also increasing. As we focus on the quality of life for this growing population, it’s important to take into account how alcohol affects their overall health.

Did you know that language commonly used to describe alcohol misuse and alcohol use disorder (AUD) can influence treatment outcomes in people suffering from alcohol problems? Yes, that can often be the case. In fact, the stigma perpetuated by such language can decrease a person’s motivation to seek help for an alcohol problem

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day! Because drinking alcohol is a large part of the St. Patrick’s Day festivities for many people, this is a good time to be mindful of how alcohol can impact your celebrations and your health.

The holidays are a time for celebration and alcohol is often present at festive gatherings. Despite all good plans, people may consume alcohol more than they intended.

Supporting research to better understand and address alcohol-related health disparities and improve the health of underserved populations is one of the highest priorities of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).

We can help alleviate the stigma associated with alcohol-related conditions by consistently using non-pejorative, non-stigmatizing, person-first language to describe these concerns and the people who are affected by them. Keep in mind that some words that are commonly used in society, such as “alcoholic” and “alcohol abuse,” can be stigmatizing.

We are profoundly saddened at the passing of Dr. Mary Jeanne Kreek last week, at age 84.

Issues of racial equity and inclusion weigh heavily on me as I contemplate the future of alcohol research. While NIAAA has been and is committed to addressing issues of racial equity and inclusion at all levels, these concerns, even though sincere and long-standing, ring hollow if they are not supported by action – bold, proactive, and committed action to ending racial inequities across the biomedical research enterprise. And let us be clear that our circumstances require transformative changes in our biomedical research ecosystem.

It’s always a good idea to periodically examine your relationship with alcohol. A popular way to do this is to participate in a sober month like Dry January or Sober October, which are health and wellness trends that emphasizes taking a break from alcohol for an entire month.

This December marks the 50th anniversary of the creation of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). As I look back over the past five decades, I am proud of our tremendous accomplishments and the progress we have made in alcohol research.

In light of the current coronavirus pandemic, it is especially important this fall for college students to take the necessary measures to protect their health and well-being, particularly if schools have resumed in-person or hybrid classes. Especially now, students and college administrators need to understand the risks associated with alcohol use.

The holidays are a time to celebrate, often with family and friends. Many social gatherings include alcohol. However, many adults partaking in the festivities may not wish to drink alcohol for a variety of reasons.

I feel compelled to address what we’ve seen and heard in the news regarding racism, police brutality, and injustice against African Americans in our country. I am outraged, horrified, and disillusioned—and I suspect most of you are, too. The effects are pervasive and touch all aspects of society. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown a bright light on the adverse impact of health inequities on African-American communities.

The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting every family across the country and will likely have a long-lasting impact on public health and well-being. Alcohol misuse is already a public health concern in the United States, with dramatic increases in emergency department visits and alcohol-related deaths observed in recent years. Alcohol has the potential to further complicate the COVID-19 pandemic in multiple ways.

Events such as Dry January and Sober October, as well as the broader sober curious movement, are rapidly gaining popularity, especially among Millennials.

The holiday season is here, bringing with it many opportunities for parties, celebrations, and for some – overindulging. So, it’s a good time to understand a little more about the possible consequences of these festivities, particularly the dreaded hangover.