The typical American sees 100,000 beer commercials before reaching age 18, says the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. That statistic is only one of several cited by the Jefferson County Commission in declaring April Alcohol Awareness Month in the county.
The proclaration urges “all citizens, parents, governmental agencies, public and private institutions, businesses, hospitals, schools and colleges in Jefferson County to support efforts that will provide early education about alcoholism and addiction and increase support for individuals and families coping with alcoholism.”
While drinking alcohol is illegal for persons under age 21, eleven percent of the alcohol consumed in the United States is consumed by individuals aged 12 to 20, says the proclamation. Nearly ten million young people in that age group report they have consumed alcohol in the past 30 days, says the proclamation. Kids who drink are more likely to be victims of violent crime, to be involved in alcohol-related traffic crashes, and to have serious school-related problems, adds the proclamation.
