The third edition of this successful Facts title was authored by the late Dr Donald W. Goodwin, who wrote with a unique and engaging style defining alcoholism in very human terms. Although much of Dr Goodwin's assessments of alcoholism still hold true today, a great deal of progress has been made in the quest to better understand the underlying causes of the disease. This fourth edition, written by a group of Dr Goodwin's former colleagues, whilst retaining much of Dr Goodwin's original material, offering his unique perspective on alcoholism. The new edition includes updated information about the effects of alcohol consumption on the body, a new section on the particular sensitivity of women to the effects of drinking, and information and advice relating to the consequences of alcohol abuse for the abusers, their families and society.