Alcohol Awareness Week (1st -7th July)
Alcohol Awareness Week is a week of awareness-raising, campaigning for change, and more. Alcohol Awareness Week 2024 will take place from 1 to 7 July on the theme of 'Understanding alcohol harm'.
Alcohol misuse is the biggest risk factor for death, ill-health, and disability among 15–49-year-olds in the UK, and the fifth biggest risk factor across all ages.
Alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that's harmful, or when you're dependent on alcohol. To keep health risks from alcohol to a low level, both men and women are advised not to regularly drink more than 14 units a week.
Risks of alcohol Misuse
Short Term
The short-term risks of alcohol misuse include:
- accidents and injuries requiring hospital treatment, such as a head injury
- violent behaviour and being a victim of violence
- unprotected sex that could potentially lead to unplanned pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- loss of personal possessions, such as wallets, keys or mobile phones
- alcohol poisoning – this may lead to vomiting, fits (seizures) and falling unconscious
People who binge drink (drink heavily over a short period of time) are more likely to behave recklessly and are at greater risk of being in an accident.
Long Term
Persistent alcohol misuse increases your risk of serious health conditions, including:
- heart disease
- stroke
- liver disease
- liver cancer
- bowel cancer
- mouth cancer
- breast cancer
- pancreatitis
- damage to the brain, which can lead to problems with thinking and memory
As well as causing serious health problems, long-term alcohol misuse can lead to social problems for some people, such as unemployment, divorce, domestic abuse and homelessness.
Getting Help
If you're concerned about your drinking or someone else's, a good first step is to see a GP. They'll be able to discuss the services and treatments available.
For more information on alcohol consumption, alcoholism and getting help go the NHS website: Alcohol misuse - NHS (www.nhs.uk)