Native Americans started consuming alcohol years ago. This has caused a number of health problems to this group. Notably, alcohol has affected both individuals and communities within America. Besides, it has greatly contributed to illnesses and untimely deaths among Native Americans (Clinard & Meier, 2011). For instance, analysis of death certificates for the last six years indicates that deaths caused by alcoholism among the Native American population have increased considerably. Moreover, the increase is estimated to be five folds compared to the current values. The rates at which teenagers take alcohol (due to domestic factors and peer influence) have been closely examined. Consequently, several reports have linked this threat to alcoholic influences. Some researches carried out have ascribed the condition to numerous physiological theories. Such theories state that Native Americans are naturally or inherently prone to alcohol. Hypothetically, it is true that alcoholism, among Native Americans, has affected their health provisions? This hypothesis can be subjected to test. Evidently, more researches regarding this area have been completed; however, a lot can still be done.
Additionally, it is important to assert that the craving for alcohol increases demographically. Theories suggest that the rate at which alcohol is absorbed in the body of a Native American is different from that of the rest of the U.S. population. These problems have been contributed by a number of social factors. Traditional, emotional suppression and social setup are some of the factors which have significantly contributed to this population’s alcohol abuse (Lippert & Spignesi, 2007). In addition, socioeconomic status and passive-aggressive conditions have led to the concerned alcoholic abuse. Despite having been educated, there is still a high prevalence of alcohol abuse among Native Americans. This has really affected their health.
Alcohol has caused a considerable number of deaths and health complications among Native Americans. A lot of research carried out indicates that there is an increased rate of liver diseases (Cirrhosis of the liver and hepatitis) among the concerned groups. Besides, 12% of deaths in the United States are caused by liver diseases. Men from the major victims (Lowinson, 2005). Long-term and heavy drinking among the population has also led to an increased number of patients suffering from brain damage. Accordingly, serious brain damage and increased memory loss are experienced by middle-aged individuals. Alcohol drinking is believed to be the major cause of certain cancer diseases, particularly breast and liver cancer. The more an individual takes alcohol, the greater the danger of developing cancer. Consequently, this is reflected by the high prevalence of cancerous diseases among Native Americans. Additionally, the population is experiencing an increased prevalence of HIV/ AIDS due to alcohol drinking (Taylor & Teton Data Systems, 2003). Drinking has not only increased the risk of contracting the disease but also its spread and progression. Besides, 30 percent and 60 percent of men and women (respectively) infected with HIV are currently under ARV drugs. A number of this population has dietary complications caused by the excessive consumption of alcohol. Alcohol abuse by this population has also led to the development of diseases like dental complications, muscle strain, and pancreatitis. It has been reported that 80% of Native American youths are alcoholics. Nonetheless, more research needs to be done on this topic.
References
Clinard, B., & Meier, F. (2011). Sociology of deviant behavior. Australia: Cengage Learning.
Lippert, T., & Spignesi, J. (2007). Native American history for dummies. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Lowinson, H. (2005). Substance abuse: A comprehensive textbook. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Taylor, B. & Teton Data Systems (Firm). (2003). Family medicine: Principles and practice. New York, NY: Springer.