We provide information on prevalence rates of alcohol use and alcohol use disorders, as well as service utilization among persons that present with alcohol abuse or dependence in Mexico. The data were collected in 2001 and 2002 in the Mexican National Comorbidity Survey. The sample design was stratified, using a computerized version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview. The response rate was 76.6%, for a total of 5,826 interviews; 86.2% of the population had ever tried alcohol and 43.5% drank in the past 12 months. Lifetime abuse or dependence was reported by 7.6% of the population, and in the past 12 months by 2.0%. Only 30.9% of all respondents with an alcohol use disorder had ever used any treatment service, and then after several years' delay. The low prevalence of service use is a matter of great concern in Mexico. Extension of services, increasing the number of health professionals in this area and more diverse and appropriate treatment programs are urgently needed.
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