It is of major medical importance that about 50% of deaths are preventable. Alcohol ranks 3rd behind tobacco and poor diet and physical inactivity as a preventable cause of death.

Smoking and alcohol contribute to over 20% of causes of death.

It was estimated that major external modifiable factors contributed to 48% of deaths in the USA in 2000. Smoking and alcohol were in the top 3 causes. (Other preventable causes not shown included microbial, toxic, firearms, and sexual behavior each at 1-3%). (Constructed from data in Mokdad A. H., et al, JAMA, 291:1238-1245, 2004)