The ONS have released the latest Statistical bulletin for alcohol-related deaths in the UK (2013). It shows in 2013 there were 8,416 alcohol-related deaths in the UK, 49 more than in 2012 (8,367).
Although the ONS highlight alcohol-related deaths are at their the lowest since 2000, rates rose rapidly during the 1990s and are therefore still significantly higher than 20 years ago. Scotland is the only country in the UK where death rates have fallen significantly over recent years, but still has the highest death rates in the UK.
A 2012 Lancet piece predicted a longer term rise in alcohol-related deaths for the future. Although it may be too soon to say, alcohol misuse is seen to play a significant role in rising liver disease rates, whilst alcohol-related hospital admissions have also been on an upward trend. Some health experts also believe that consumption, which has been falling since 2004, may start to increase again as the economy recovers.
The alcohol 'harm paradox'
The ONS also published an analysis looking at socio-economic and gender inequality in alcohol-related deaths among working-age adults (16-64 years).
Alcohol-related death rates were highest for those in routine occupations (e.g. bar staff, cleaners and labourers), despite these groups drinking the least. Conversely managerial and professional roles, who are most likely to regularly drink above the guidelines, experience the lowest death rates.
Last year a report from the Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS) called for action to address health inequalities as a key issue for alcohol policy. It suggests reasons for the alcohol harm paradox were complex, but likely to be linked to multiple unhealthy behaviours more prevalent amongst lower socio-economic groups.
An Alcohol Research UK flagship grant into the alcohol harm paradox is also currently being undertaken by the Centre for Public Health at Liverpool John Moores University.
Comments