Voice of the people, alcohol dangers

To the editor:

It would be a great tragedy to lower the legal drinking age and expose teenagers to the health-related dangers of alcohol. Scientific evidence suggests that even modest alcohol consumption in late childhood and adolescence places youth at great risk; heavy consumption may result in brain damage. The human brain continues to grow throughout adolescence, developing areas responsible for complex thinking, memory and emotions. Those who think young bodies and young brains are resilient to alcohol use are dangerously wrong.

Alcohol-related diseases, accidents and injuries are a serious threat to young adults who choose to consume alcohol. We need to protect our youth from these risks associated with early alcohol use.

Peter W. Carmel, MD
Board member, American Medical Association