Alcohol Impact Project
Methodology & Transparency
Methodological transparency helps readers evaluate the source choices, quality controls, and limits behind the Alcohol Impact Project.
The Architecture of Trust
When public cost estimates are translated into tools that people can use, credibility depends on showing the math. The Alcohol Impact Project estimates excessive alcohol consumption costs of $420.2 billion nationally and $3.25 billion in Iowa for 2021. Those figures should be accompanied by clear limitations, source context, and downloadable technical materials.
This is independent research. It updates the framework behind the CDC-supported 2010 estimate using 2021 inputs. It is not a CDC estimate, and CDC has not produced, reviewed, or endorsed the figures.
How the Work Is Structured
Source framework
The materials explain the published framework, updated data sources, and quality checks used to produce the estimates.
Published anchors
The model is anchored to the previously published CDC-supported 2010 framework, then separates the strict update from the modernized estimate used externally.
Government share
The work separates the full societal cost from the portion borne directly by government, helping avoid confusion between broad economic drag and taxpayer burden.
Quality control
The workbook includes acceptance tests and review registers so component totals, state results, and Iowa-specific checks can be inspected.
Downloads
These files are hosted on GS Federal for public access.
Methods MemorandumFull narrative methods document explaining the model design and limitations.
Iowa One-Page BriefPublic-facing Iowa summary for communication and review.
National One-Page BriefPublic-facing United States summary for communication and review.