Essay On Minimum Drinking Age

The National Minimum Drinking Age Act was passed thirty-one years ago in July of 1984. Since then, it has been contested by many that the minimum age should be lowered to eighteen. Arguments ranging from being able to join the military, or courts trying you as an adult at the age of 18 have long been heard. Others will say the United States is too strict with the minimum age with only six percent of countries having a minimum age of twenty-one. This could mean one of two things: either we are too strict, or we are responsible with the laws created to protect young adults from the effects of alcohol. Alcohol can have many different physical effects on your body. Short term effects can include nausea, disorientation, slurred speech and dizziness. Anyone who has consumed alcohol in excess will also feel the effects the next morning, which is commonly referred to as a hangover. Alcohol will cause your body to urinate more, leading to dehydration. It will also cause your blood vessels to expand, which can lead to the headaches often associated with a hangover. These are also many long term effects of drinking, specifically related to adolescents. As stated by the American Medical Association "The

Increased risk of heart disease, nerve damage, liver disease and even sexual performance issues. These issues are compounded with the amount of alcohol consumed and also the frequency of consumption. France and Italy both have a lower minimum drinking age than the U.S. and both have a higher death rate due to cirrhosis of the liver, which is primarily caused by alcohol consumption. The earlier an individual starts drinking will only further contribute to medical problems down the road. Although the science is constantly developed, and studies are still being conducted, one thing consistently being shown is the increased medical risk for