Epidemiological Aspects of Alcohol Drinking in Children and Adolescents

A growing number of children and adolescents drinking alcohol have become a global issue. Drinking alcohol at a young age is associated with alcohol dependence in adulthood and numerous further medical and social issues. Alcohol (ethanol) is the oldest drug used since the dawn of civilization, being used as food, medicine or for religious and social purposes. It was considered a gift from gods, a belief that persisted for centuries. Although it was regarded as healing and tonic for the body, its abuse was condemned. First alcoholic beverages were those fermented naturally, wine and beer, distillation appeared during the 8-9th centuries.