Binge Drinking

Binge drinking is a pattern of consumption characterized by heavy drinking during a single occasion, leading to intoxication. This pattern of drinking, consisting of at least five drinks per drinking episode for men and four drinks for women, raises concern because of its high correlation with accidents and injuries, such as those incurred when driving while intoxicated. In older adults, binge drinking has significant health implications, such as heart disease. Rates of binge drinking vary by age. It is the most common pattern of alcohol consumption among adolescents, with increasing prevalence through young adulthood, peaking at age 21, and declining through adulthood. For most youth, engaging in binge drinking does not predict the development of alcohol dependence. This pattern changes for older adults, as binge ...