Part 7: Alcohol and Health

Question 1

State the effects of alcohol consumption. (5)

Answer 1

1. Small amounts of alcohol help people to relax.
2. Addictive
3. Greater amounts lead to a lack of self-control
4. Causes weight gain.
5. Long-term effects include liver and brain damage.

Question 2

Suggest why alcohol remains a legal drug, despite the fact it causes so many deaths.

Answer 2

Alcohol industry contributes greatly to the economy.

Question 3

Describe the short-term effects of alcohol on the body. (4)

Answer 3

1. Slows reaction times
2. Reduces inhibitions
3. Lack of self-control
4. Lack of judgement

Question 4

Describe the long-term consequences of excessive alcohol on the body, especially the liver and brain. (3)

Answer 4

1. May develop cirrhosis of the liver, where liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue.
2. Alcohol is a carcinogen- so can lead to the lead to the development of liver cancer.
3. Causes the brain to become soft and pulpy, so normal brain function is lost.

Question 5

Explain the reasons why it is dangerous for pregnant women to consume alcohol. (3)

Answer 5

1. Alcohol passes through the placenta.
2. Can cause stillbirth, low birth mass, and premature birth.
3. Can cause:
   • foetal alcohol syndrome (baby is born with brain damage)
   • facial deformities
   • kidney/liver/heart problems

Question 6

Other than health issues, describe some of the other consequences of excessive alcohol consumption. (2)

Answer 6

1. People can become aggressive and get into fights.
2. Slow reaction times can mean drink drivers are more likely to crash and injure or kill themselves or others.

Question 7

Suggest why it is not legal to sell alcohol to under 18 year olds.(2)

Answer 7

1. The liver and brain aren’t fully developed.
2. So more likely to become damaged.

Question 8

Suggest why many people drink excessively, despite the overwhelming scientific advice that this is harmful. (2)

Answer 8

1. Alcohol is addictive
2. Also causes a lack of judgement