The study examines the 12-month prevalence and trends of DSM-IV alcohol abuse and dependence in the United States from 1991–1992 to 2001–2002. Data were collected from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) and the National Longitudinal Alcohol Epidemiologic Survey (NLAES). The 2001–2002 prevalence of alcohol abuse was 4.65% (9.7 million adults), and dependence was 3.81% (7.9 million adults). Alcohol abuse was more common among males and younger individuals, while dependence was more common among Whites, Native Americans, and Hispanics. Between 1991–1992 and 2001–2002, alcohol abuse increased while dependence decreased. The increase in abuse was observed among males, females, and young Black and Hispanic minorities, while dependence increased among males, young Black females, and Asian males. The study highlights the need for continued monitoring of prevalence and trends, as well as culturally sensitive prevention and intervention programs. The findings underscore the importance of addressing disparities in alcohol use disorders among different racial and ethnic groups. The study also notes that while overall rates of heavy drinking have slightly declined, the prevalence of alcohol abuse has increased, possibly due to changes in drinking norms and social attitudes. The results emphasize the need for targeted prevention efforts, particularly among young adults and minority groups, and the importance of understanding the complex interplay between environmental and genetic factors in alcohol use disorders.The study examines the 12-month prevalence and trends of DSM-IV alcohol abuse and dependence in the United States from 1991–1992 to 2001–2002. Data were collected from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) and the National Longitudinal Alcohol Epidemiologic Survey (NLAES). The 2001–2002 prevalence of alcohol abuse was 4.65% (9.7 million adults), and dependence was 3.81% (7.9 million adults). Alcohol abuse was more common among males and younger individuals, while dependence was more common among Whites, Native Americans, and Hispanics. Between 1991–1992 and 2001–2002, alcohol abuse increased while dependence decreased. The increase in abuse was observed among males, females, and young Black and Hispanic minorities, while dependence increased among males, young Black females, and Asian males. The study highlights the need for continued monitoring of prevalence and trends, as well as culturally sensitive prevention and intervention programs. The findings underscore the importance of addressing disparities in alcohol use disorders among different racial and ethnic groups. The study also notes that while overall rates of heavy drinking have slightly declined, the prevalence of alcohol abuse has increased, possibly due to changes in drinking norms and social attitudes. The results emphasize the need for targeted prevention efforts, particularly among young adults and minority groups, and the importance of understanding the complex interplay between environmental and genetic factors in alcohol use disorders.