News > Alcohol use is widely accepted in the US, but even moderate consumption is associated with many harmful effects

Alcohol use is widely accepted in the US, but even moderate consumption is associated with many harmful effects

This month, millions of Americans are taking part in “Dry January” in an effort to forgo alcohol for a month and cleanse themselves of the excesses of the holiday season. The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it important changes in alcohol consumption. Alcohol is such a commonly used substance, heavily marketed and glamorized in pop culture, Americans’ comfort with and acceptance of its use in everyday life is remarkably high. But should it be?