Biological effects of alcohol

The disease of alcoholism has long been a major health problem which affects significant proportions of the populations of various countries. It is now apparent that legal and moral sanctions have not provided a sufficient impetus to arrest this rampant problem. Therefore, it is evident that the approach to this international health problem must rely on the development of efficacious prevention and treatment techniques. If the treatment and prevention of alcoholism is to be based on the rational assessment of the disease, it is imperative that we understand the complex determinants of this disease. The elements that initiate and perpetuate this addictive process must be examined and elucidated. Because this disease appears to involve biological, psychological and sociological factors, the need for multidisciplinary research is of the utmost importance. Indeed it is imperative that research findings obtained in one area or discipline be made available to researchers in other disciplines. A better understanding of the factors which contribute to alcohol-related problems can be achieved by studying the agent that is essential for the expression of the disease process. This can be accomplished by examining the acute or chronic effects of that agent upon a number of biochemical, physiological or behavioral systems. This international conference was organized to enhance communication among investigators from different disciplines working on different aspects of alcohol-related problems and alcoholism. The proceedings of this international symposium represent the most recent findings in these areas of research. The topics range from biophysical processes to complex cognitive processes. It is hoped that findings from each discipline can challenge and stimulate the others. Many papers in this publication present new data and novel contributions to the alcoholism literature. Indeed the high qualities of the papers are tributes to the dedication and high scientific standards manifested by the outstanding participants. I wish to express my gratitude to the individuals who chaired the various sessions. These scientists played a most critical role in the selection of participants and in the conduct of the symposium. These international symposia have been going on since 1972 and have always been part of the meetings sponsored by the International Council of Alcoholism and Addictions.