Alcohol can have a severe impact on the health of Native American individuals, families, and communities. The
consequences of alcohol abuse for Native Americans include increased risks for heart disease, cancer, gastrointestinal problems, pneumonia, tuberculosis, dental problems, hearing and vision problems, depression, and other mental health disorders.3 A recent analysis found that alcoholic liver disease is a major leading cause of death for Native Americans.4 Alcohol use is also a major cause of preventable birth defects and developmental disabilities in Native Americans, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that the rate of fetal alcohol syndrome among some tribes is more than eight times the national average.5 Alcohol use leads to increased risk for unintentional injuries, including those resulting from poor decision making and risky behaviors. Studies show that Native American men have the second-highest self-reported rates of driving under the influence, as well as the second highest arrest rates for drunk driving, compared to men from other racial and ethnic groups.6 Alcohol also contributes to the harm that many Native Americans suffer as a result of violence. Studies show that alcohol is involved in more than 6 in 10 violent crimes committed by Native Americans, and nearly half of the violent crimes experienced by Native Americans involve alcohol.7
