New report on North East drink and drug overdoses

Jul 7 2009 by Helen Rae, The Journal

Recent statistics show alcohol-specific hospital admissions are up to 35% higher in the region than the national average, while rates of death in men from chronic liver disease increased by almost 22% from 2001 to 2005.

Colin Shevills, director of the country’s first regional alcohol office, Balance, said: “The statistics by the North East Ambulance Service just goes to show how much time is spent by ambulance crews dealing with alcohol-related issues.

“When people think about overdoses they tend to think about drugs rather than alcohol, when the latter is clearly a major issue.

“Alcohol, unlike drugs, is legal but it has devastating health complications when drank in large quantities.” A spokesperson for NHS North of Tyne said: “Reducing alcohol-related harm and encouraging sensible drinking is a key priority for our public health teams and our partners across North of Tyne and we have a range of initiatives under way to encourage sensible drinking.

“Work to reduce the harm caused by alcohol to individuals, children, families and communities continues to be a priority so that the region is a healthy and safe place to live, work and visit.”

The recommended levels of safe alcohol consumption for men are no more than three to four units a day and no more than 21 units in one week, while for women they are to have no more than two to three units a day, with no more than 14 in one week.

Last month, the largest public health debate ever to be held in the region was launched by Balance to assess the impact of drink on the region.

Drinkers and non-drinkers alike are being asked to take part in the North East Big Drink Debate, which is supported by The Journal.

All the information gathered through the survey will be used to inform a state of the region report to be published in autumn. Together with its partners, Balance will use the report to inform an updated regional alcohol strategy designed to help people reduce their alcohol consumption.

:: The North East Big Drink Debate questionnaire is available online, as well as being distributed on high streets across the region. Click here to take part.