Men and Addiction

There are multiple reasons that influence men and addiction, but studies have shown that biological, psychological, and social differences are important contributing factors.

Are men more prone to addiction? Men are more likely to use illicit drugs and in most age groups, men have a higher likelihood of developing a dependence on illicit drugs and alcohol compared to woman. However, women are just as likely as men to develop a substance use disorder.

Substance use can pose a variety of problems for men, such as:

• Increased risk of overdose.

• Increased visits to the ER for substance-related problems.

• Increased risk of substance-related death.

• Increased rate of binge drinking, which can increase the chances of developing alcohol-related problems.

Binge drinking means a pattern of drinking that brings blood alcohol levels to 0.08% or higher, which typically results when a man has 5 or more drinks in about 2 hours).

Depending on the substance they use, men can also suffer from an increased risk of medical conditions that occur with addiction, including:

• Liver disorders.

• Kidney disorders.

• Cardiovascular problems.

• Gastrointestinal disorders.

• Lung disease.

• Sleep problems.

• Increased risk of cancer.

• Sexual dysfunction.

• Risk of infectious disease like hepatitis B and C or HIV.

• Increased risk of mental health disorders.

Unfortunately, men often encounter difficulties and obstacles in seeking or receiving addiction treatment and as a result, may continue to use substances.