It's a saying that's grown up over time. The Big Book says we can become recovered. I'm no longer sick. Recovery is an inside job. If you use the word disease like dis-ease, then I think it fits better.
Alcoholism is a self inflicted disease.
They are character flaws and weaknesses. I don't believe the 12-step program even works in today's society. I did my clinicals working with a drug and alcohol counseling group and saw too many use that as an excuse and never really take responsibility for their actions. Here's the next question, Anne. Miracle, I'm recovered and I'm still growing all the time.