Alcohol: “The Silent Epidemic” warns addiction specialist
Samuel Kirk
Experts say daily drinking poses serious health risks—both physical and mental.
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – As national attention grows around the health impacts of alcohol, one leading addiction expert is calling it a “silent epidemic.”
Dr. Joseph Volpicelli, Executive Director of the Institute of Addiction Medicine, warns that excessive drinking can lead to devastating long-term effects on nearly every system in the body, from the liver and heart to the brain.
“It can affect your mood, it can affect your social relationships, your financial health,” Volpicelli said. “The consequences of excessive drinking go throughout the whole body and throughout the whole person and even the individuals who interact with that person.”
Volpicelli also highlighted that alcohol-related deaths now outnumber opioid overdose deaths in the U.S.
For those looking for help, Yuma’s Crossroads Mission offers a 24/7 detox center. “Anyone can come in and get help detoxing from drugs or alcohol,” said Sassa Culver, the mission’s PR Director. “There are EMTs on staff 24/7 so people can detox safely.”
Health leaders recommend seeking early intervention, using screening tools like AUDIT, and joining support groups or treatment programs.