Yes, alcoholism is a disease
and has been recognized as such by the American Medical
Association.
The craving that an alcoholic feels for alcohol can be as strong as the need for food or water. An alcoholic will continue to drink despite serious family, health, or legal problems.Like
Type I diabetes and some other diseases, alcoholism is chronic, meaning that it lasts a person's lifetime; it
often follows a predictable course; and it has symptoms
particular to the disease. Genetics, lifestyle and
environment all effect a person's risk of becoming an
alcoholic. (See also "Publications," Alcohol Alert No. 30: Diagnostic Criteria for Alcohol Abuse and Dependence.)
