This report provides current information on the health consequences of using alcoholic beverages and a description on current research findings on alcohol abuse and alcoholism. The focus is on research advances since September, 1993. The chapters are as follows: (1) "Epidemiology of Alcohol Use and Alcohol-Related Consequences"; (2) "Genetic, Psychological, and Sociocultural Influences on Alcohol Use and Abuse"; (3) "Actions of Alcohol on the Brain"; (4) "Neurobehavioral Effects of Alcohol Consumption"; (5) "Effects of Alcohol on Health and Body Systems"; (6) "Effects of Alcohol on Fetal and Postnatal Development"; (7) "Effects of Alcohol on Behavior and Safety"; (8) "Economic Aspects of Alcohol Use and Alcohol-Related Problems"; (9) "Prevention of Alcohol Problems"; (10)"Treatment of Alcoholism and Related Problems"; and (11) "Alcohol Health Services Research." Each chapter includes an extensive bibliography. (MKA)