Data released today by the NHS Information Centre highlights the worrying increase in the amount of alcohol consumed by young people around the country.
Despite variations between regions in the levels of alcohol consumption by 11-15s, what remains clear is that the quantities of alcohol consumed by young people who drink is increasing to the limit of what is considered be safe for adults.
Today’s regional breakdown shows that in the North East, young people who drink alcohol are consuming an average of 17.7 units each week – the highest levels in the country. While boys’ levels of consumption in this region is almost level with suggested limits for adult males, girls are drinking 15.5 units per week, well in excess of levels considered safe for adult females.
Commenting, Alcohol Concern Chief Executive Don Shenker said:
“Today’s figures are very worrying. We’ve seeing a slight decline in the number of children who drink, but those who do drink are drinking much more.
“Too many young people are now drinking at or above safe adult levels, yet their bodies are less able to cope with the harm alcohol can cause.
“We’ve already seen an almost one thousand per cent increase in liver cirrhosis deaths in the 25-44 age group. This is impacting our health services and the lives of families across the UK.
“Time and time again we hear from families that alcohol is too cheap and too easy for young people to get hold of. If the Government really wants to tackle alcohol misuse in this country, then it needs to get tough and follow the Chief Medical Officer’s recommendations for a minimum price for alcohol.”
Alcohol Concern