URGENT UPDATE: A shocking new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that excessive alcohol consumption is responsible for approximately 800,000 deaths annually in Europe. This alarming statistic accounts for one in every eleven deaths across the continent, underscoring a public health crisis that demands immediate attention.
The WHO’s latest factsheet, published earlier this week, highlights Europe as having the highest levels of alcohol consumption globally. The report indicates that excessive drinking significantly contributes to premature mortality and injury, with nearly 145,000 injury-related deaths in 2019 attributed to alcohol use. The leading causes of these alcohol-related injuries include self-harm, road accidents, and falls.
“Alcohol is a toxic substance that not only causes seven types of cancer and other noncommunicable diseases, but also impairs judgment and self-control,” stated Carina Ferreira-Borges, Regional Adviser for Alcohol, Illicit Drugs, and Prison Health at WHO/Europe. This underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and preventive measures to tackle alcohol-related injuries and deaths.
The report also sheds light on the troubling link between alcohol and interpersonal violence, identifying drinking as a major factor in incidents of assault and domestic abuse. Young people are particularly vulnerable, as alcohol can adversely affect brain development and decision-making during critical developmental stages.
Among adolescents and young adults, alcohol continues to be a leading risk factor for injury-related disability and premature death. The WHO emphasizes the necessity of addressing this issue, as the long-term consequences of alcohol consumption can lead to alcohol use disorders and various mental health problems.
Geographically, the data reveals a stark disparity in alcohol-related deaths across Europe. Eastern European countries account for nearly half of all alcohol-attributable injury deaths, while western and southern regions report less than 20%. Meanwhile, in Russia, recent surveys indicate a significant shift in drinking habits, with the proportion of people abstaining from alcohol nearly doubling over the past two decades. Interestingly, beer has emerged as the most commonly consumed alcoholic beverage, surpassing vodka.
This urgent report calls for immediate action from governments, health organizations, and communities to address the devastating impact of alcohol. As Europe grapples with this public health crisis, the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate alcohol-related harm has never been more critical.
WHAT’S NEXT: Stakeholders are urged to prioritize policy changes and public health initiatives aimed at reducing alcohol consumption. Increased funding for education, treatment, and prevention programs is essential to combat this growing epidemic.
Stay tuned for further developments as we monitor this pressing issue affecting millions across Europe.
