Alcohol use among women has surged to match men’s rates, but women face far greater health risks even at lower consumption levels. A growing body of research is uncovering key neurobiological sex differences that influence why and how women drink, with stress being a more prominent motivator for women. Scientists are now investigating brain circuits, neuroimmune responses, and hormonal influences to better understand these differences and to develop more tailored, effective treatments. This work is especially urgent, as alcohol-related deaths and health complications are rising faster in women, yet existing treatments have been largely designed and tested on men. ….[READ]
