Alcohol affect's the body's blood cells. It slows down the movement of blood around
the body and this means less oxygen reaches the body's organs. Without oxygen,
tissues are damaged or killed, especially in the brain. Alcoholics (people addicted to
alcohol) unable to stop drinking, often have significant brain damage. Heavy drinkers
permanently damage their livers which can cause serious diseases such as hepatitis
or cancer. Drinking problems can also lead to dependence on prescribed drugs.
