National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

U.S. government research institute focused on alcohol-related issues

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism logo

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) is a part of the United States Department of Health and Human Services and is one of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It is the lead agency for U.S. research on alcohol and health and the largest funder of alcohol research in the world.

History

The NIAAA was established in 1970 as a response to the growing awareness of the impact of alcohol abuse on public health. The institute was created to address the need for a comprehensive approach to understanding and treating alcohol-related issues. Over the years, the NIAAA has played a pivotal role in advancing research and public policy related to alcohol use and its consequences.

Mission

The mission of the NIAAA is to generate and disseminate fundamental knowledge about the effects of alcohol on health and well-being, and to apply that knowledge to improve the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of alcohol-related problems, including alcohol use disorder.

Research Areas

NIAAA supports a wide range of research areas, including:

• The biological and behavioral mechanisms of alcohol use and addiction.
• The health effects of alcohol consumption, including liver disease, cancer, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
• The development of new treatment strategies for alcohol use disorder.
• The impact of alcohol on different populations, including adolescents, women, and minorities.

Leadership

Dr. Ting-Kai Li, former NIAAA Director

The NIAAA has been led by several notable directors who have contributed to its mission. Dr. Ting-Kai Li served as the director from 2002 to 2008, during which time he emphasized the importance of understanding the genetic and environmental factors influencing alcohol use.

Kington NIH Director

The current director, as of 2023, continues to build on the institute's legacy by promoting innovative research and public health initiatives.

Publications and Resources

NIAAA provides a wealth of resources for researchers, healthcare providers, and the public. These include:

• The "Alcohol Research: Current Reviews" journal, which publishes the latest findings in alcohol research.
• Educational materials and guidelines for healthcare professionals on the treatment of alcohol use disorder.
• Public awareness campaigns to reduce the stigma associated with alcohol-related issues.

Related Pages

• Alcohol use disorder
• National Institutes of Health
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

External Links

• Official NIAAA website