Cerebrovascular and cardiovascular complications of alcohol and sympathomimetic drug abuse.

Alcohol and stimulant abuse represents a major cause of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease in young adults. Although mild-to-moderate alcohol consumption has been linked to a decreased risk for stroke and CVD, excessive use is associated with an increased risk for intracranial hemorrhage and cardiomyopathy. Cocaine represents the single largest,cause of medical complications related to illegal drug use.