Effects of Alcohol Misuse on Health

How can long-term alcohol misuse contribute to heart disease?

• It raises blood pressure and damages the heart muscle

• It improves circulation and strengthens the arteries

• It lowers cholesterol, protecting the heart

• It has no link to the cardiovascular system

Why might alcohol misuse contribute to obesity?

• Alcohol contains “empty calories” that provide energy but no nutrients

• Alcohol increases metabolism, causing fat to burn faster

• Alcohol suppresses appetite, leading to weight loss

• Alcohol is low in calories and has no impact on weight

Which is the most accurate description of alcohol’s effect on the liver?

• It can cause fatty liver, hepatitis and cirrhosis

• It strengthens the liver and prevents infection

• It increases bile production, improving digestion

• It has no impact on liver function

How does alcohol misuse increase the risk of stomach ulcers?

• It irritates the stomach lining and increases acid production

• It reduces acid, soothing the stomach

• It strengthens the protective lining of the stomach

• It has no effect on the stomach wall

Why can alcohol misuse affect memory and decision-making?

• Alcohol slows down brain signals and damages the hippocampus

• Alcohol speeds up brain processing

• Alcohol has no impact on memory

• Alcohol improves focus and concentration

What best explains the link between alcohol misuse and depression?

• Alcohol is a depressant that disrupts brain chemistry and mood

• Alcohol is a stimulant that prevents depression

• Alcohol improves serotonin levels permanently

• Alcohol misuse has no connection to mental health

How can alcohol dependence affect self-esteem?

• Dependence reduces control, causing guilt and low self-worth

• Dependence always builds confidence in social settings

• Dependence has no effect on self-esteem

• Dependence improves self-worth and personal control

Why might people who misuse alcohol feel shame and guilt?

• They may regret the negative impact on relationships and responsibilities

• They usually feel proud of their drinking habits

• Alcohol always leads to happiness and optimism

• They experience no emotional response

How could alcohol misuse paradoxically lead to new friendships?

• Through attending recovery programmes such as Alcoholics Anonymous

• Through increased fitness and sports participation

• Because misuse automatically improves social confidence

• By strengthening professional networks at work

Which is the most likely social outcome of long-term alcohol misuse?

• Isolation from friends and family

• Better social skills

• Improved family relationships

• Increased success at work