In this study, we examine racial/ethnic disparities in alcohol-related problems, whether and how disparities relate to heavy consumption and pattern, and whether social disadvantage contributes to disparities. Here, we aim to extend the seminal work of Herd, Jones-Webb and colleagues, and to use rigorous techniques to assess disparities in the context of differences in heavy consumption and pattern. By drawing upon the 2005 National Alcohol Survey with large minority oversamples, we seek to broaden earlier racial comparisons to investigate differences across African American, white and, notably, Hispanic drinkers. Finally, this study specifically considers whether poverty, unfair treatment and racial/ethnic stigma helps to account for racial/ethnic differences in the risk for alcohol-related problems.
