science
STAT Launches Series Examining Alcohol-Related Deaths, Treatment Gaps and Policy Responses
STAT published an investigative series on May 12, 2026, detailing how alcohol kills more Americans than opioids, fentanyl, methamphetamines or heroin. Reporters Isabella Cueto and Lev Facher examined inconsistent screening, fragmented treatment and underused medications. The series draws on more than 100 expert interviews and highlights gaps persisting in the Trump administration.
May 12, 9:08 AM·2m read1 source
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STAT published a new investigative series titled 'The Deadliest Drug' on May 12, 2026. Written by Isabella Cueto and Lev Facher, the series catalogs the nation's failure to address excessive alcohol use as a leading cause of disease, injury and death. Alcohol kills 178000 Americans each year.
It remains more deadly than opioids, fentanyl, methamphetamines or heroin, even as drinking rates have dipped to historic lows in those under 50. Screening for excessive drinking and related health problems is inconsistent and tends to flag only severe cases.
Many health care providers are uncomfortable pressing patients on their drinking levels, referring them to treatment, or prescribing medications known to help reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption.
U.S. relies disproportionately on individual willpower and on the ideology and practices of 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous. Alcoholics Anonymous has helped millions quit alcohol, yet its sometimes dogmatic approach has failed many who reject its God-centric bent or wish to reduce rather than eliminate drinking.
The nation’s treatment infrastructure for excessive alcohol consumption remains fragmented. U.S. Most cases of alcohol use disorder are mild or moderate.
Even so, many Americans seeking treatment are forced to choose between labeling themselves “alcoholics” and never drinking again or forgoing treatment altogether. U.S. is facing a twin epidemic of alcohol use and metabolic disease.
