Benjamin rush, a physician who also signed the declaration of independence, was the first to:

The best answer is, refer to alcohol addiction as a disease. 

Benjamin Rush is known as a founding father of the United States, he held many titles including a physician, statesmen, civic leader, and social reformer. Rush served as Surgeon General to the Continental Army practicing medicine and advancing humanistic care, from where he is known for the remark regarding alcohol addiction as a disease. Rush is also remembered for signing the Declaration of Independence and his work as an educator at Dickinson College.