Alcohol abuse is a problem that encompasses more than alcoholism (a chronic, lifelong acquired disease in which a person is dependent upon alcohol)- one can abuse alcohol without being dependent on its effects. [1] Over 17 million people in the United States are either alcohol abusers or alcoholics. Alcohol abuse is a problem for people of all demographics, but is highest among people aged 18-29. People who start drinking at a young age are much more likely to become alcohol abusers than people who do not start drinking until the age of 21.