New Figures Highlight Hidden Human Cost Of Alcohol Misuse In Scotland

Main Category: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs
Article Date: 01 Jul 2009 - 0:00 PDT

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Commenting on new figures published yesterday which show that one in 20 deaths are attributable to alcohol, Dr Peter Terry, Chairman of the BMA in Scotland, said:

"These figures highlight the true hidden human cost of alcohol misuse in Scotland. Today's figures are from 2003 and show a shocking death toll caused by a drinking culture that is out of control. We already know that alcohol consumption has increased between 2003 and 2006 so the death toll now will be far higher.

"Scotland is awash with alcohol and the consequences are crippling the health service. The scale of the problem needs radical solutions. A wide ranging strategy is essential, but alongside public health education and awareness raising, a central part of this strategy is to introduce minimum price per unit of alcohol. Legislation on price is the only proven way to help change behaviour and end the heavy drinking culture that is blighting our health service."

Notes

The figures are available online at: http://www.isdscotland.org/isd/5964.html

Addressing the BMA's Annual Conference in Liverpool earlier today, Dr Peter Terry called on MSPs from all parties to put party politics aside and support legislation on minimum price per unit of alcohol. The speech is available in full here.

In April, BMA Scotland published a report "The Human Cost of Alcohol Misuse: doctors speak out" . This report highlights the health consequences of alcohol misuse in Scotland.

Source
BMA Scotland Public Affairs Office
14 Queen Street
Edinburgh
EH2 1LL