The study, conducted by researchers at Boston University, involved more than 42,000 Americans aged 18 and older.

The research revealed that those who started drinking before age 17 were three to four times more likely to have been in a fight after drinking alcohol at some time in their lives compared to adults who began drinking after age 21.

"Whether there is a direct causal relation between alcohol use and violence is still a subject of investigation. The good news is that there are things that can be done," such as providing addiction treatment and brief counseling by health-care workers, said Dr. Ralph Hingson, the study's lead author.

The study is published in the October issue of Pediatrics.

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Your Turn! Post a public comment (read guidelines):

Name:
Comment: (limit 200 words)
Enter this word (help):	Change

GUIDELINES: 
To keep this feature useful for everyone, please:

1. Keep it clean, courteous, focused, and on-topic. Comments are meant for thoughtful discussion of the article published above.
   
   
2. Do not post personal requests for help or general promotions for your organization (Get help).
   
   
3. Proof your comments carefully, use good spelling and punctuation, and don't use ALL CAPS. Comments are published immediately and cannot be edited.

Deceptive, slanderous and commercially-motivated posts are prohibited. We reserve the right to remove comments not conforming to these guidelines. (Report a comment).

Have questions or feedback? Contact us.