Alcohol use and alcoholism in Latin America: changing patterns and sociocultural explanations.

Alcoholism and alcohol-related problems in Latin America constitute a serious problem that may be increasing despite variations by ethnicity, country, and other variables. Ethnographic studies since 1940 suggest that heavy, convivial drinking among adult males for recreational reasons is common and has been for some time. Epidemiological surveys and ethnographic research since 1960 suggest that social changes accompanying urbanization and modernization are introducing escapist/utilitarian motives for drinking that interact with traditional recreational motives to cause increasing alcohol use and alcoholism. A resource table on use patterns in Latin America is provided.