The abuse of alcohol worldwide is a problem which compromises both individual and social development, resulting in 2.5 million deaths each year and causing more than 200 different diseases and injuries. Statistics show North Americans in general, and Canadians in particular drink more than 50 per cent above the global average, and people in Europe and parts of Sub-Saharan Africa are the world’s heaviest consumers of alcohol on average. Studies documenting the amount and patterns of alcohol consumption by country indicate alcohol use is the third leading global cause of disease and death after high blood pressure and tobacco smoking, among 67 risk factors overall. These statistics illuminate how the risk of alcoholism is not limited to a particular ethnic community, socio-economic status or region of living. While regulations and laws about alcohol consumption vary geographically with trends and culture, at least 34 countries have adopted formal policies to reduce the harmful use of alcohol. Alcoholism treatment is available in medical centers globally where you can find an individualized care and treatment program that best suits you.