Tragic Death Highlights Perils Of Binge Drinking, UK

Main Category: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs
Article Date: 23 Jul 2009 - 3:00 PDT

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Commenting on the tragic death of 22-year-old Gary Reinbach, who died as a result of binge drinking since the age of 13, Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), said:

"First and foremost we extend our sympathy to Gary Reinbach's family who will be grieving the loss of a man who should have had many years to look forward to. It is a tragedy that the binge drinking crisis in this country has claimed the life of a young man and it highlights just how damaging binge drinking can be and should serve as a warning to others.

"Alcohol misuse is an issue that nurses are faced with on a daily basis, and a major health concern. Excessive drinking is both a cultural and a regulatory problem. We need more effective regulation that ensures retailers don't engage in unscrupulous practises which encourage customers to drink to excess. It is important that alcoholic drinks are clearly labelled so people realise just how much they are drinking. At the same time, we need to step up public health campaigns that educate the public about the dangers of binge drinking."

Source
Royal College of Nursing (RCN)

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