STAT+: Despite its toll, alcohol is still an awkward subject in the doctor’s office

STAT PlusThe Deadliest Drug Despite its toll, alcohol is still an awkward subject in the doctor’s office Inconsistent screening in the U.S. means many patients aren’t getting help for unhealthy drinking By Amanda Erickson and Isabella CuetoMay 12, 2026 Amanda Erickson[email protected]Amanda Erickson is a news editor at STAT.Isabella Cueto[email protected]Isabella Cueto covers the leading causes of death and disability: chronic diseases. Her focus includes autoimmune conditions and diseases of the lungs, kidneys, liver (and more). She writes about intriguing research, the promises and pitfalls of treatment, and what can be done about the burden of disease. You can reach Isabella on Signal at isabellacueto.03. Manage alerts for this article Email this article Share this article Stop in for your annual physical, and you may be asked some version of this question: How much alcohol do you consume most weeks? Or maybe, how many days over the last week did you have a drink? Or even just: Do you drink at all? Most doctors agree that asking about alcohol consumption — and assessing whether drinking is interfering with physical and mental well-being — is an essential part of a checkup. And there are evidence-backed tools to talk about alcohol use, even at a 15-minute appointment. Yet alcohol screening and counseling are too often compressed or skipped during primary care visits, studies suggest.Advertisement This gap is costing patients and the health care system a great deal. Excessive alcohol use — beyond one drink a day for women or two for men — is known to cause or worsen dozens of diseases and shorten lifespans. Even moderate use has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, hypertension, liver damage, and other conditions. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in Monthly $39 Totals $468 per year $39/month Get Started Totals $468 per year Starter $30 for 3 months, then $399/year $30 for 3 months Get Started Then $399/year Annual $399 Save 15% $399/year Get Started Save 15% 11+ Users Custom Savings start at 25%! Request A Quote Request A Quote Savings start at 25%! 2-10 Users $300 Annually per user $300/year Get Started $300 Annually per user View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Log In addiction, patients, Physicians, public health, research, STAT+ Submit a correction requestReprints Amanda Erickson News Editor Amanda Erickson is a news editor at STAT. Isabella Cueto Chronic Disease Reporter Isabella Cueto covers the leading causes of death and disability: chronic diseases. Her focus includes autoimmune conditions and diseases of the lungs, kidneys, liver (and more). She writes about intriguing research, the promises and pitfalls of treatment, and what can be done about the burden of disease. You can reach Isabella on Signal at isabellacueto.03. Recommended The Deadliest Drug May 12, 2026 STAT Plus: Alcohol is wreaking havoc on U.S. public health. American society looks the other way The Deadliest Drug May 12, 2026 6 takeaways from STAT’s investigation into the U.S. alcohol epidemic Subscriber Picks