Recent data from the Institute of Alcohol Studies reveals that alcohol harm in Scotland costs an estimated £5-10 billion annually. This staggering figure includes a £700 million burden on the NHS, £1.2 billion in lost productivity, and £1 billion related to alcohol-related crime. The most alarming aspect is the loss of up to £7 billion in healthy life years. The crisis is deepening, with a 25% increase in alcohol-related deaths over the past three years and a 40% reduction in treatment access over the last decade. These figures highlight the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address alcohol harm in Scotland.
In response to this emergency, Alcohol Focus Scotland has called for several critical interventions. These include enhancing access to alcohol treatment and support, imposing tougher restrictions on alcohol marketing, and introducing an alcohol harm prevention levy. Additionally, they advocate for mandatory health warnings on alcohol products and stronger controls on alcohol sales locations. These measures aim to reduce the significant economic and health burdens posed by alcohol harm and ensure a healthier future for Scotland.
Learn more about the new research by the Institute of Alcohol Studies (UK, May 2024)
Alcohol Awareness 