The American Council on Science and Health (ACSH) have published a comprehensive and balanced analysis of the similarities and differences between the health effects of alcohol and tobacco use in the US.

The Book, 'A comparison of the Health effects of alcohol consumption and tobacco use in America was prompted by the tendencies of some agencies and departments to class tobacco and alcohol together, "it is time to get the country looking at the alcohol industry in exactly the same way we're looking at tobacco" say the Campaign for Alcohol free kids.

Through a careful breakdown (citing many research papers and findings) of each health benefit and negative health implication of both substances, the Board of scientists and physicians conclude "Moderate consumption of alcoholic beverages can provide significant health benefits to some groups of consumers. Conversely, there are no net health benefits from the typical use of tobacco products....Also, scientific data indicates that the vast majority of alcoholic beverage users are light to moderate drinkers who handle alcohol in a reasonable manner.. in contrast the regular use of tobacco products at any dose may harm an individuals health'

The report therefore recommends that the differing effects of tobacco products and alcoholic beverages on health be considered when policy makers evaluate regulatory and educational approaches to the use of these substances.