Since the drinking age was raised to a nationally uniform 21, drunk driving-related deaths have dropped substantially, at almost the same percentage as driving-related deaths that do not involve alcohol. Drinking age opponents and independent studies suggest that vehicle safety, seatbelt wearing, and increased use of designated drivers account for the substantial decrease in alcohol- and non-alcohol-related driving deaths. Furthermore, the trend started in 1969 but plateaued in the mid- to -late-1990's when cops 'n shops programs became popular. However, the introduction of cops 'n shops and slowing of the decrease in drunk driving deaths may be unrelated.
[[Conservative]] values are an excellent way to combat alcohol abuse. For example, conservative [[Christianity|Christian]] group [[Teen Challenge]] reported a 70% cure rate for addicts graduating from its program. Most secular programs report cure rates of 1-15%.<ref>http://teenchallengeusa.com/studies2.php</ref>
==Health effects==
The health effects of alcohol abuse are well documented and range from mild to severe. Effects include:
*chronic liver damage
*reduced memory and brain function
*Stomach ulcers
*Heart disease
Severe alcohol abuse ==Withdrawal==Alcohol withdrawal (colloquially known as "The DTs") can lead chronic liver damage vary in extremes from minor shakes and discomfort to full blown seizures, hallucinations and even deathin some cases.The level of withdrawal is correlated to the amount one drinks over length of time. Symptoms include:*insomnia*irritability*tremors of the extremities (particularly hands)*seizures*intense cravings for alcohol*hallucinations*coma*death (in severe cases) ==Treatment==
[[Conservative]] values are an excellent way to combat alcohol abuse. For example, conservative [[Christianity|Christian]] group [[Teen Challenge]] reported a 70% cure rate for addicts graduating from its program. Most secular programs report cure rates of 1-15%.<ref>http://teenchallengeusa.com/studies2.php</ref>. The most common, and successful, recovery program is [[Alcoholics Anonymous]].