Binge drinking among women and girls is a health problem that is serious but under-recognized, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says in a report today. About 1 in 8 women and 1 in 5 high school girls binge drink, according to the CDC’s Vital Signs report. Binge drinking for women is defined as consuming four or more alcohol drinks, such as beer, liquor or wine, on an occasion.
The study found that binge drinking was most common among women ages 18-34 and high school girls. It also was most prevalent among women living in households with annual incomes of $75,000 or higher.
The report notes special concerns about binge drinking among women. Women and girls metabolize, or process, alcohol differently than men and boys.
The CDC warns binge drinking puts women at a higher risk for breast cancer, sexually transmitted diseases, heart disease and unintended pregnancy. Binge drinking during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and sudden infant death syndrome.
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