Page 229 - Health, Population and Environment Education 10

Alcohol
In our country many ethnic groups use alcohol as
a tradition or culture. It has been in practice since
ancient time. Wine, whisky, beer, chhyang, rum,
etc. are the different forms of alcohol. Alcohol is
a toxic liquor harmful for our body. It contains
the toxic chemical ‘ethanol’ or ‘Ethyl alcohol.’ It
affects the function of brain reducing its functions.
When alcohol is used in a disordered manner, it is Fig: 31
referred to alcoholism. It is a form of alcohol abuse
that involves the inability to manage drinking habits. The use of excess alcohol may cause
accidents and effect our life and property.

a. Reasons for Alcohol Use
• Peer pressure
• Due to the logic that alcohol helps in
digestion of food
• Attraction due to advertisement
• Due to frustration
• Some use it as a beverage that gives
energy Fig: 32
• Some have the tradition to drink
• For recreational purposes when gathered with friends
• To feel relaxed
• To escape from worries/problems
b. Effects of Alcohol
The effects of alcohol depend on the intensity and frequency of its use. Its effects are
classified into two categories.

i. Immediate effects
• Increases pulse rate and heart beat
• Eyes become red

• Decreases of sensation of touch
• Decreases of memory power
• Body becomes imbalanced and passive

• Family and personal relationships are disturbed
Fig: 33
ii. Chronic effects
• Damages liver, lungs, kidneys, etc.
• Causes cancer of alimentary canal
• May lead to infertility
GREEN Health, Population and Environment Education Book-10 229