McEachin announces $348,946 HHS grant to Virginia Commonwealth University

Congressman A. Donald McEachin (VA-04) announced a grant of $348,946 from the Department of Health and Human Services to Virignia Commonwealth University for research in alcohol and alcoholism.

“Alcohol abuse is a serious problem in Virginia, leading to disease, death and strain on families,” said McEachin. “In 2009, there were 5,639 Virginians admitted for alcohol abuse to recovery centers and an additional 6,681 people admitted for alcohol dependence combined with a secondary drug. Moreover,  estimates show that this year alone, there will be 35,302 DUI’s, and 420 deaths due to intoxicated driving this year.  Almost one out of every four teenagers has had one alcoholic drink in the last 30 days and 12% have had four or five in one twenty-four hour period. This funding for research into this serious health problem is very significant. If we can find ways to reduce alcoholism we can make Virginia a safer, healthier and more successful place.”