Alcohol misuse: tackling the UK epidemic - London

10
BMA Board of Science
Introduction
Alcohol consumption represents an integral part of modern culture in the UK and internationally.
The production of alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine and spirits occurs on a vast scale as part
of a multi-billion pound global industry. Alcohol is a psychoactive substance and its consumption in
moderation can lead to feelings of relaxation and euphoria, causing it to be consumed widely in
many social scenarios and across the socio-economic spectrum. Alcohol is also an addictive drug,
however, and its misuse is associated with a wide range of dose-related adverse consequences that
can lead to significant harm to the individual and society.
Recent years have seen increasing interest in the levels of alcohol misuse in the UK, and in
particular the pattern of binge drinking and heavy drinking. Alcohol consumption is causally
associated with a wide range of medical conditions and is a significant cause of morbidity and
premature death worldwide. It contributes to a range of acute and chronic health consequences,
from alcohol poisoning and injuries resulting from traffic crashes to cancer and cardiovascular
disease. The more an individual consumes, the greater the risk of harm. Alcohol misuse is
associated with crime, violence and anti-social behaviour, and can impact significantly on family
and community life. The cost of alcohol misuse in the UK is substantial, both in terms of direct
costs (eg costs to hospital services and the criminal justice service) and indirect costs (eg loss of
productivity and the impact on family and social networks). The control of alcohol at a national
and international level is therefore essential. This requires the implementation of strategies that are
effective at reducing overall alcohol consumption levels in a population, as well as targeted
interventions aimed at specific populations such as young people or individuals who are dependant
on alcohol. Tackling alcohol misuse also requires greater personal responsibility from individuals
who consume alcohol in a manner that is harmful to themselves and those around them.
This report considers the problematic levels of alcohol misuse in the UK and is not aimed at those
who enjoy consuming alcohol in moderation. It examines the patterns and trends of alcohol
consumption and goes on to review the range of adverse effects both on the individual and
society that are associated with its misuse. The report concludes by considering the evidence
for effective alcohol control policies and discusses the current approaches in the UK. The
recommendations are for action by the UK Government and are evidence-based policies that
need to be adopted in order to tackle alcohol misuse and its associated harms.
“”
The parallels between the smoking habits of old and the drinking habits of the
present are stark. I sincerely hope that the current evidence of medical and societal
harm is enough for the government to act on alcohol now, rather than waiting for
the imminent epidemic of cirrhosis and cancer.
BMA member
Alcohol misuse: tackling the UK epidemic