In a sociological context, the term drug denotes any substance, other than food, that chemically alters the structure or function of a living organism.

Like so many other social problems, drug use has only subjective dimensions.

The perception of alcohol as a social problem varies with changes in American culture and developments in knowledge, about the effects of alcohol use.

Research shows that more Catholics than members of other religions are heavy drinkers, but Episcopalians drink most heavily.

A little more than 25 percent of all alcoholics and problem drinkers are homeless vagrants.

The most impressive successes in coping with alcoholism have been achieved through antabuse programs.

The drug called crack is less expensive than cocaine in its powder form and its use is often associated with a lower-class lifestyle.

Surveys show that the prevalence of drug use is higher among whites than among blacks.

Methadone is an addictive drug that is sold on the street as a substitute for heroin.

The simplest approach to a problem like drug abuse is to crack down on the sale or use of the drug.