Thursday, April 1, 2004

Atlantic County Participates in National Alcohol Screening Day

My husband and I are expecting a baby, and I enjoy an occasional glass of wine with dinner – will this affect my unborn child? I take an over the counter pain medication for my bad back – does this mean I shouldn't drink alcohol? My 75-year-old father has recently been diagnosed with high blood pressure – can drinking make his hypertension worse? These are just some of the questions that arise regarding alcohol use.

For most adults, moderate alcohol use causes few, if any, problems. But for some, any alcohol use may lead to serious health problems. Determining the risks associated with alcohol is not easy because alcohol affects people differently under varying circumstances.

"Although most individuals who drink do so safely, many people are unaware of the factors and circumstances by which alcohol can negatively affect their health," noted County Executive Dennis Levinson. "We want individuals to make informed decisions about their drinking behaviors."

To help residents determine where they should draw the line, the Atlantic County Division of Public Health and the Institute for Human Development are offering a free and confidential screening program on Thursday, April 8 as part of National Alcohol Screening Day. Screenings will be held from 9:00 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. at the County Division of Public Health, 201 S. Shore Road, Northfield. No appointment is necessary.

As part of the program, participants will complete a written self-test and have the opportunity to talk privately with a health professional at no charge. An educational video and written materials will also be available, as well as referrals to local treatment programs and support resources for those concerned about a family member or loved one.

For additional information about Alcohol Screening Day, call the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at 609-645-5945, or visit www.aclink.org/publichealth.

www.aclink.org/publichealth

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