Alcohol and Alcoholism in Russia with Special Reference to Toxicology

What is it about?

This review is focused on alcohol and alcoholism in Russia since 1970, but the subject matter is significant in a global context. The article may be of interest for experts in medicine and toxicology, social workers and psychologists. There has been a tendency to exaggerate the topic in order to veil shortcomings of the health care system, with responsibility for the comparatively low life expectancy especially in males shifted onto people, that is, self-inflicted diseases caused by the alcohol abuse. Besides, the purpose of this review is to draw attention to the unstable quality of legally sold beverages, which have caused poisonings up to lethality, even after consumption of moderate doses, offenses against alcoholics and people with alcohol-related dementia, aimed at appropriation of their immobile and other property, and overtreatment of alcoholics in medical institutions. Some invasive procedures have been used without sufficient indications. Instead of warmongering, the Russian government should provide public assistance to citizens in need, including those suffering from alcoholism and alcohol-related dementia.

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