Is alcoholism a disease?

Yes: It is recognized as a disease by the World Heath Organization, the American Medical Association, and the federal government.

Alcoholism a disease: Alcoholism a disease due to: Short Term Health Risks •Motor vehicle crashes, falls, drownings, •Homicide, Suicide, Sexual assault •Alcohol Poisoning •Risky sexual behaviors leading to pregnancy or STD Long Term Health Risks •High blood pressure, Heart disease, Stroke, Liver disease •Cancer of the breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, and colon •Memory problems, Dementia •Depression, Anxiety

Alcoholism: Alcoholism has been described as a "mental obsession that causes a physical compulsion to drink." people keep drinking despite clear harm to themselves, their health, their relationships, and other life roles. Once drinking, it is no longer a choice. Alcohol also has severe effects on the body: http://www.Niaaa.Nih.Gov/alcohol-health/alcohols-effects-body all this qualifies as a disease.

Many reasons: Like heart disease ; diabetes, alcoholism is due to genes ; poor life style choices- diet, no exercise, smoking. Genetics are 50% responsible. Children of alcoholics are 8 x more likely to become alcoholics. Alcoholism is a brain disease. Evidence shows altered neurotransmitter response to alcohol. If one of your family members is alcoholic, you risk surprise addiction to a prescribed pain pill.