Effects of Alcohol on the Developing Brain: The Adolescent at Risk

ABSTRACT

Adolescence is a phase of great physical, emotional and social transformations that put individuals in vulnerability and with risks of aggravations that can be definitive. Among the various characteristics of the adolescent, the experimentation of new sensations and challenges is one of the most outstanding, being responsible for several common problems in this phase of life. Among the several factors that can adversely affect adolescents, alcohol is one of themost prevalent, offering serious immediate and late risks. This article presents some characteristics of alcohol consumption among adolescents and the effects on the development of the central nervous system, highlighting the main damages that can be caused in the brain in formation (reduced white matter volume and cortices, neuronal apoptosis, demyelination). In view of the relevance of the effects of alcohol on the developing brain all efforts should be directed towards avoiding or minimizing the risks to which adolescents are subject. It also presents some measures that can be with the aim of preventing the consumption of alcohol among adolescents.