In response to Alcohol Concern’s report on the cost to the NHS of treating alcohol misuse, Siobhan McCann, Head of Campaigns and Communications at alcohol education charity Drinkaware, says:
“Today’s statistics are a stark reminder of the long-term health impact of regularly drinking over the government’s guidelines*. People in their 30s and 40s who we know are drinking more and more frequently than under 25s**, are likely to be a burden on local NHS services in the future.
“At any age, there are adverse health impacts of drinking above the government’s guidelines, but in later life your likelihood of developing health problems goes up. Drinking to excess increases your risk of getting diseases including cancer, heart and liver disease – which has no warning signs.
“People who want to assess how much they’re drinking and the impact of this on their health can go to MyDrinkaware.co.uk and get tips on how to cut down.”
Ends
Contact:
Kelly O’Sullivan Senior Communications Officer on kosullivan@drinkaware.co.uk / 0207 766 9910 / 07979 844023
Sohila Sawhney Communications Officer on ssawhney@drinkaware.co.uk / 0207 766 9910 / 07917 135436
Notes to Editors:
*The government advises that people should not regularly drink more than the daily unit guidelines of 3-4 units of alcohol for men (equivalent to a pint and a half of 4% beer) and 2-3 units of alcohol for women (equivalent to a 175 ml glass of wine). ‘Regularly’ means drinking every day or most days of the week.
**Drinkaware responds to Statistics on Alcohol in England, May 2012 http://www.drinkaware.co.uk/
Drinkaware provides consumers with information to make informed decisions about the effects of alcohol on their lives and lifestyles. Our public education programmes, grants, expert information, and resources help create awareness and effect positive change. An independent charity established in 2007, Drinkaware works alongside the medical profession, the alcohol industry and government to achieve its goals. For further information visit www.drinkaware.co.uk