In this episode of The Shift, USAPA CEO Mike Marshall explores common myths surrounding alcohol. Joined by physician and alcohol policy researcher Dr. Tim Naimi, they dive into the evidence on alcohol's health impacts, its role in violence and chronic disease, and the policies that could meaningfully reduce harm.

Guest Bio

Dr. Tim Naimi, M.D., M.P.H., is a physician and leading alcohol epidemiologist. He previously worked at the CDC and Boston University and is currently based at the University of Victoria in Canada, where his work focuses on the population-level impacts of alcohol and evidence-based policy solutions.

Key Takeaways

✅ Alcohol contributes to an estimated 178,000 deaths each year in the U.S., making it a leading cause of preventable death.

✅ Alcohol increases the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease, challenging the myth that drinking is good for heart health.

✅ The economic costs of alcohol far exceed the revenue it generates, with taxpayers covering much of the difference.

✅ Policies that reduce affordability, availability, and acceptability of alcohol are proven to lower harm but remain underused.

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