Anyone who doubts we have a particular problem with alcohol in the UK should read this article ( http://www.thelancet.com/journals/la...022-6/fulltext ), or try to watch “ Britain’s Hidden Alcoholics “ on BBC One next Monday ( 20 February, 8.30 pm ).
However achieved, there’s a need for a cultural shift. It’s not just Glasgow’s Royal Infirmary A + E , but every hospital A + E – especially at weekends. Even that is not the whole story. An increase in consumption by young people – “ pre-loaded “ by drinking alcohol from the supermarket at home before going out to carry on binge–drinking - is one aspect of the problem.
The other is middle class adults drinking at home, 2/5 drinking above recommended limits at least once a week. A similar number of men and women have an alcohol problem. Every week pubs are closing, booze is bought by the middle classes for consumption at home, and they’re in denial about the risks. Hazardous consumption ( more than 8 units on one occasion ) is one of them. Another is drinking alcohol without food ( unlike other European countries ). Finally, underestimating the amount drunk - because of all the publicity, but also not realising or accepting there is a problem.
“ Booze buses “ and “ drunk tanks “ may not have much impact. Minimum pricing would have much more. Whatever the solutions, the fact is the UK has an alcohol problem which it can’t afford. It costs £90 / year for every taxpayer. Health professionals worry about the illnesses caused. Too many of the public are in denial.
I don’t expect members to post how many units they consume. But please add them up, be honest with yourself ! I consume 15 units / week and have 3 alcohol – free days / week ( http://www.drinkingandyou.com/site/uk/what.htm ). If you’re drinking more than the recommended limits, do something about it. Don’t blame me for going on about it – I’m only the messenger !
