Reacting to Office of National Statistics figures which reveal an increase in alcohol-related deaths in 2008, Chris Sorek, Chief Executive of Drinkaware, says:
“It’s shocking to discover that alcohol-related deaths are again on the increase, and it’s vital now, more than ever, that we act to reduce the harms caused by drinking too much. With more and more people dying from alcohol misuse it’s essential we change people’s relationship with drinking, and education has a key role to play.
“Male alcohol-related deaths have more than doubled in the last 17 years, but women also need to vigilant. Regularly exceeding the daily unit guidelines can increase everyone’s chances of developing liver damage, heart disease and some cancers.
"Average weekly alcohol consumption has decreased in two years which is certainly a step in the right direction but there are still a number of people who drink so much they’re putting themselves at risk. Just drinking two large glasses of wine or a couple of pints of lager in one sitting can make people susceptible to serious long term health conditions.
“Making sure people know the effects of regularly drinking to excess is an important part of changing people’s attitudes and behaviours towards alcohol. Providing people with tips and advice on how to cut down also goes a long way to tackling our binge drinking culture. Keeping tabs on units and spacing alcoholic drinks with soft drinks or water alone won’t solve the problem, but will help people cut back.”
Drinkaware