Health impact of alcohol abuse goes far beyond the drinker
A new report released today is a stark reminder that the health impact of alcohol abuse extends far beyond the drinker, according to the AMA (NSW).
The Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Foundation (AER Foundation) has today released the startling findings of a study into the harm caused by the drinking of others.
The AER Foundation has found that the total cost of alcohol misuse in Australia is now estimated at $36 billion annually.
AMA (NSW) President Dr Michael Steiner said although the strain placed on the health system by alcohol abuse is usually focused on the drinkers themselves, the medical impact on the rest of the community is profound.
“This report highlights that it’s not just the drinker who is hurt by alcohol abuse. It shows that in 2005, there were 367 deaths and 13,669 hospitalisations because of the drinking of others,” he said.
“Imagine the relief on the health system if we could reduce this incredible number of avoidable hospitalisations.”
The total morbidity costs of the drinking of others has been estimated in the AER Foundation report to total $88.6 million and includes hospital costs, road crash injury cases and assault.
“Australia’s rapidly ageing population is putting enormous pressure on our health system and this will increase into the future,” Dr Steiner said.
“The massive health impact of alcohol abuse on the drinker and those around them is an additional strain we just can’t afford.
“Hopefully, the AER Foundation’s report will serve as a sobering reminder to the community.”
Media Contact: Anil Lambert 0432 828 006
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