Such drinking behaviors are being targeted by peer groups, parents and college campuses, including Colorado State University. CSU was the site of the 2004 death of 19-year-old sophomore Samantha Spady who, according to autopsy reports, consumed 30 to 40 beers and shots of vodka within a 12-hour time frame. Spady passed out in the bedroom of a fraternity house where her body was discovered the next day.

Mackay-Smith says that Samantha Spady’s death, although just one of several thousand alcohol-related deaths that have occurred on U.S. college campuses over the past decade, re-awakened public awareness to high-risk drinking.

“It’s an issue that affects the whole community, and that’s one of our most important messages,” she says. “College campuses are not isolated institutions. Everyone must become involved, in terms of personal responsibility, [not just to themselves, but to one another.] In fact, it’s irresponsible not to be.”

If you or someone you know needs help with high-risk drinking, check out your campus health clinic—most have alcohol and drug treatment components. For additional resources, visit www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov or the Higher Ed Center’s website, www.edc.org.