Steuben Prevention Coalition A Message from the Steuben Prevention Coalition Steuben Task Force on Under Age Drinking www.steubenpreventioncoalition.org 607-776-6441

DID YOU KNOW? Did you know that scientists have found changes in brain cells as little as six minutes after the consumption of alcohol? These changes can create permanent damage, especially in the teen brain. Because the teen brain isn’t fully formed, staying away from alcohol can help protect the developing brain.

WHAT IS BINGE DRINKING? Binge drinking is the practice of consuming large quantities of alcohol in a single session, usually defined as five or more drinks at one time for a man, or four or more drinks at one time for a woman.   About 90% of the alcohol consumed by youth under the age of 21 in the United States is in the form of binge drinks.

HOW DOES ALCOHOL EFFECT THE BRAIN OF A TEENAGER? Drinking is more harmful to teens than adults because their brains are still developing throughout adolescence and well into young adulthood.  Drinking during this critical growth period can lead to lifelong damage in brain function, particularly as it relates to memory, motor skills (ability to move) and coordination.

ALCOHOL’S DAMAGING EFFECTS ON THE BRAIN The brain doesn’t finish developing until the mid-20’s. The brain literally shrinks in size……… Decreasing the ability to rewire, learn and create new cells The frontal lobe is especially susceptible to this damage and it becomes difficult to……….. Solve complex problems Remember things Maintain concentration These effects are more pronounced in adolescence!

LONG TERM EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL Continued alcohol use in large amounts and binge drinking in large amounts is associated with many health problems, including: Alcohol poisoning  High blood pressure, stroke, and other heart-related diseases  Liver disease  Nerve damage  Permanent damage to the brain  Vitamin B1 deficiency, which can lead to a disorder characterized by amnesia, apathy and disorientation  Ulcers  Gastritis (inflammation of stomach walls)  Malnutrition  Cancer of the mouth and throat  

Make sure all of your wheels keep turning!!! Think about your future……. Make sure all of your wheels keep turning!!!