Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Statistics: Ohio & U.S.
Understanding the scope of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is crucial for addressing its impact on individuals and communities. Below is an overview of the latest statistics at both the national and Ohio state levels.
National Statistics
Prevalence
In 2023, approximately 28.9 million Americans aged 12 and older (10.2% of this population) had an AUD.
American Addiction Centers
Binge Drinking
About 23.5% of adults aged 18 and older reported binge drinking in the past month.
NIAAAHeavy Alcohol Use
Approximately 6.3% of adults aged 18 and older engaged in heavy alcohol use in the past month.
NIAAAMortality
Excessive alcohol use is responsible for about 178,000 deaths annually in the U.S., shortening the lives of those who die by an average of 24 years.
CDCDemographic Insights
Gender Differences
A study published in JAMA in April 2025 revealed that women aged 18 to 25 are now binge drinking slightly more than their male counterparts. Specifically, 31.6% of women in this age group reported binge drinking, compared to 29.9% of men . This marks a significant change, as men have traditionally had higher rates of binge drinking.
methadone.orgAge Groups
Young adults aged 18–25 have the highest rates of AUD and binge drinking nationally.
College Drinking PreventionRacial and Ethnic Disparities
White adults have higher rates of alcohol use compared to other racial and ethnic groups.
NIAAAMental Health Correlation
There is a strong link between AUD and mental health disorders. In Ohio, 33.1% of adults reported symptoms of anxiety and/or depression in early 2023, which can contribute to or result from substance use.
Ohio Statistics
Prevalence
An estimated 503,000 Ohio residents (5.1% of the population) struggle with AUD annually.
methadone.orgBinge Drinking
26.4% of Ohioans engaged in binge alcohol use in the past month. That is 2.9% higher than the national average.
The Recovery Village ColumbusYouth Impact
Among Ohioans aged 18–25, 10.1% had an AUD in the last year, and 38.9% engaged in binge drinking.
methadone.orgKey Takeaways
AUD remains a significant public health issue both nationally and in Ohio.
Young adults and men are particularly at risk.
Binge and heavy drinking contribute to a substantial number of preventable deaths annually.
Mental health support is integral to addressing AUD effectively.
Need Help?
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use, support is available. Contact our team to learn more about treatment options and resources in your area.