URGENT UPDATE: New reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) confirm that excessive alcohol consumption is responsible for approximately 800,000 deaths annually across Europe, equating to one in every eleven fatalities in the region. This alarming statistic highlights the severe public health crisis posed by alcohol use, as detailed in a factsheet released this week.
The report underscores that Europe has the highest levels of alcohol consumption globally, contributing significantly to not only premature mortality but also to a surge in injuries and violence. In 2019, nearly 145,000 injury deaths in the region were linked to alcohol, with the leading causes being self-harm, road injuries, and falls.
Carina Ferreira-Borges, WHO’s Regional Adviser for Alcohol, Illicit Drugs, and Prison Health, stated, “Alcohol is a toxic substance that not only causes seven types of cancer and other noncommunicable diseases but also impairs judgment and self-control.” Ferreira-Borges emphasized that alcohol is a major driver of preventable injuries and deaths, particularly among young people, who face increased risks to their brain development and decision-making capabilities during critical growth periods.
The report reveals that alcohol consumption is also intricately linked to interpersonal violence, including assaults and domestic abuse, making it a significant factor in violent injury deaths across Europe. Shockingly, the data shows that Eastern European nations account for nearly half of all alcohol-attributable injury deaths, while western and southern regions contribute to less than 20% of these fatalities.
In recent years, drinking habits in Russia have shifted, with the proportion of non-drinkers nearly doubling. Current surveys indicate that beer remains the most popular alcoholic beverage among Russians, overshadowing traditional spirits like vodka.
This urgent report shines a light on a growing health crisis that demands immediate action from public health officials, policymakers, and communities across Europe. With the detrimental effects of alcohol not only impacting individuals but also society at large, it is crucial to address this pressing issue now.
As the WHO continues to advocate for effective strategies to combat alcohol-related harm, stakeholders are urged to take heed of these findings. The public must stay informed and share this critical information to foster a collective response to this avoidable tragedy.
In summary, the WHO’s latest findings on alcohol consumption underscore an urgent need for action. With 800,000 lives lost each year, the implications of these statistics are profound, calling for immediate awareness and intervention across all levels of society.
