Who's MADD at alcohol abuse? World Health Organization

William Atkins
Saturday, 24 May 2008 19:50

Science - Health

The World Health Organization (WHO) is in the developmental stage of launching a global strategy to combat alcohol abuse especially in binge drinking among children and teenagers.

On Thursday, May 22, 2008, WHO officials at a meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, announced their new international strategy against alcohol abuse.

Officials with WHO stated what they are "deeply concerned by the extent of public health problems associated with harmful use of alcohol, including injuries and violence". [AFP: “WHO approves new anti-alcohol strategy”]

According to its website on alcohol drinking, “In many parts of the world, drinking alcoholic beverages is a common feature of social gatherings. Nevertheless, the consumption of alcohol carries a risk of adverse health and social consequences related to its intoxicating, toxic and dependence-producing properties."

WHO adds, "In addition to the chronic diseases that may develop in those who drink large amounts of alcohol over a number of years, alcohol use is also associated with an increased risk of acute health conditions, such as injuries, including from traffic accidents.”

Dr. Ala Alwan, the WHO assistant director-general for non-communicable diseases and mental health, stated, “The harmful use of alcohol causes serious public health problems.” [Reuters: “WHO gets nod to tackle harmful use of alcohol”]

Statistics from WHO show that about 2.3 million pre-mature deaths occur each year from binge drinking and other types of dangerous alcoholic-related behaviors in children and young adults. Officials state that about 4% of pre-mature deaths each year occur because of alcohol-related abuse.

Besides deaths, WHO cites that overindulgence in alcohol consumption is also associated with increased frequencies of suicides, crimes, violence (especially domestic violence), pregnancy problems, and traffic accidents.

According to WHO, alcohol abuse is also linked with increased unemployment and, for those with jobs, increased absenteeism. Abusive use of alcohol has been shown to increase the risk of getting cardiovascular diseases, cirrhosis of the liver, and various cancers.

Officials with the World Health Organization state their strategy would be presented to the public within two years. It will consist of guidelines for the pricing, marketing, and distribution of alcoholic products on a nation-by-nation basis. It will also include a public awareness campaign.

For additional information on the problems associated with alcohol abuse, please visit the WHO website “WHO Expert Committee on Problems Related to Alcohol Consumption.”