The disease concept of alcoholism revisited.
The history of the conception of alcoholism as a disease is outlined. Recent opposition to that conception and the specific reasons therefor are discussed. On the basis that addiction constitutes a disablement in the medical sense, it is concluded that alcoholism is properly defined as a disease.
D000428:Alcohol Drinking; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000266:history*; D000574:American Medical Association; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D006666:History of Medicine; D006801:Humans; D009014:Morals; D009042:Motivation; D010554:Personality Disorders; D012803:Sick Role; D012920:Social Behavior Disorders; D009626:Terminology as Topic; D014481:United States