The campaign " Go Sober for October " was launched in 2013. As alcohol is a risk factor for several cancers, it raises funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, in addition to attempting to reduce long-term alcohol consumption. A similar campaign ( " Dry January " ), which started 2 years ago, is promoted by the charity " Alcohol Concern in England and Wales ".



The benefits listed in the Huffington Post article ( better sleep, better skin, more money, and weight loss ) might help people, including Forum members, to at least reflect on their alcohol drinking, thanks to Arthur .




One problem with this type of campaign is that participants select themselves - it could attract those at the lowest risk from health problems related to alcohol. Those not drinking to excess, or only to a mild or moderate degree, are at LEAST risk of either starting, or increasing intake to an unhealthy level.



There is a rise in alcohol consumption - not only in the UK, but also other countries such as the USA and Philippines. The price of alcohol has decreased over the past 40 years, suggesting that a minimum unit price might help. Other suggestions include a " duty escalator " 2% above inflation for alcohol, limited availability ( off-licence, and on-licence, including airports and flights ), and restricted advertising. ALL such attempts may be / already are met with resistance.



The annual financial cost to the NHS of managing alcohol-related health issues has been estimated at £3.5bn - £120 for each taxpayer. Most serious liver disease - among other ill-effects - is due to alcohol. Such data is not available, to my knowledge, for the Philippines. Filipinos may not even consider alcoholism a medical problem.



For many people, " social drinking " is acceptable and desirable. A few SM beers " oils the social wheels " ... and San Miguel Corporation is highly profitable. The Scarborough Forum members’ get-together a few years ago was at my " local " bar. All who attended know each other better for having met " in real ".



The challenge is to target those most at risk, while recognising individual choice. The consequences for partners, children, and associates can be serious - and ill-afforded by any country.