Despite the aforementioned limitations, the current study yielded important new findings, identifying a shorter delay to the first experience of subjective intoxication as a novel predictor of heavy drinking and problems, controlling for AO. Given the focus of previous research on AO rather than AI or delay to AI, the vast majority of extant research and public health initiatives advocate for prevention efforts aimed at delaying AO. Despite valiant efforts, 75% of American high school seniors have used alcohol (Johnston et al., 2006) and over 1 million binge drink at least 6 times monthly (Grunbaum et al., 2002). Furthermore, nearly 40% of college students meet the diagnostic criteria for an AUD (Knight et al., 2002). Although abstinence is the best way to prevent alcohol-related harm, the current study provides evidence for the importance of postponing AI among those who have started drinking. Such efforts may decrease the long-term risk for negative alcohol-related outcomes among those who begin drinking at an early age.
