The effects of alcohol consumption differ according to gender, age, amount consumed, genetic predisposition towards addiction, and metabolism. Alcohol consumed as a part of religious ceremonies and joyous celebrations. Yet, each year many people die from complications related to alcohol consumption. Listen to the audio file and take notes about how much the person has consumed the effects of the consumption, and the consequences from the consumption. Then, respond to the discussion questions below.

Explain the toxic effects of alcohol consumption on the body. How do cognitive problems develop from long-term toxic levels of exposure to alcohol?

Predict what Isabel might experience while she goes through alcohol detoxification. Why should this process be medically supervised?

Isabel has been drinking for many years. How might her early experiences with drinking (e.g. in high school and college) made her more prone to alcoholism?

Why do some people develop alcoholism while others do not?