Binge and “high-intensity” drinking may seem like a rite of passage for many college-age adults, but the consequences can be deadly. Excessive drinking can lead to drunk driving accidents and alcohol addiction, a life-altering condition. That’s why the Indiana Alcohol Research Center (IARC) is stepping up to the challenge with a reported $8.65 million grant renewal from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
Housed at the Indiana University School of Medicine and led by director David Kareken, the IARC research team is determined to understand the root causes of alcohol misuse and help college-age adults in Indiana and beyond stay safe and healthy. This funding renewal marks the IARC’s eighth consecutive grant from the NIAAA since it was founded.
NIH Grant Offers Hope For Addressing Alcohol Use Disorder In Indiana
Indiana has some of the highest rates of alcohol-related deaths nationwide, and binge drinking is a major issue among Hoosiers. Indiana shares the same death rate per 100,000 people (10.4) as the overall national average, according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS). Additionally, the 2021 Indiana College Substance Use Survey (ICSUS) found that 37% of Indiana students aged 21-25 engaged in binge drinking.
Given the serious consequences of excessive alcohol use, including impaired driving and health problems, tackling this issue is a crucial priority for the Hoosier state. Because extreme drinking behaviors are becoming increasingly common, the IARC research team hopes to understand the underlying behavioral and neurobiological risks that contribute to alcohol use disorder (AUD).
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Studying Risk Factors and New Treatments
Since 1987, the IARC has been researching the risks of alcohol use disorder. Through multi-disciplinary collaboration, researchers like Cristine Czachowski and Christopher Lapish aim to identify how inherited and acquired behavioral and neurobiological factors contribute to extreme drinking behaviors. Their goal is to find new treatments by studying similarities between human and rodent models of alcohol use disorder.
Additionally, the IARC will provide education about the science, prevention, and treatment of alcohol use disorder to:
- Communities
- Schools
- Healthcare providers
- Indiana state policymakers
To learn more about the research and resources offered by the IARC for alcohol use disorder, visit their website.
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Find Support and Treatment for Alcohol Addiction in Indiana
The IARC’s renewed grant provides hope for a better understanding of alcohol use disorder in Indiana and the development of new treatments. This is crucial for the many college-age adults who are affected by this issue. If you or someone you know is struggling with AUD, it’s important to seek professional help.
There are many support resources available, including those provided by the IARC and other organizations. Remember—seeking help is a courageous and important step toward healing and recovery!
Indiana offers many addiction treatment facilities which provide integrated treatment programs to help people struggling with alcohol addiction. If you or a loved one is dealing with alcohol use disorder, seek professional help. Medical professionals can provide the support and resources needed to begin the journey toward recovery. Landmark Recovery is just one of many resources available to help people choose recovery over addiction.
Choose Recovery Over Addiction
We're here 24/7 to help you get the care you need to live life on your terms, without drugs or alcohol. Talk to our recovery specialists today and learn about our integrated treatment programs.
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