May 2021 Alcohol Alert: Unveiling Alarming Trends and Policy Debates
Nobody wants to be dying of an alcohol-related cause. There's a father or a mother, or uncle, or a son brother. It's so so common and there's good biological reasons for that.
How has the pandemic reshaped the landscape of alcohol consumption in the UK? The May 2021 episode of the Alcohol Alert podcast dives into some eye-opening statistics and discussions that might surprise you. The Institute of Alcohol Studies presents a comprehensive roundup of the latest updates on UK alcohol policy matters, with a spotlight on the startling 20% increase in alcohol-specific deaths from 2019 to 2020. But that's just the tip of the iceberg.
This episode also sheds light on how alcohol adverts are catching the eyes of adolescents, potentially increasing their likelihood to drink. You'll hear about a fascinating study from University College London that links higher social media use among young people to greater alcohol consumption.
If you're curious about what the government is doing, there's an in-depth look at the upcoming consultation on mandatory alcohol labelling and a lively debate in the House of Lords on the Commission on Alcohol Harm’s 2020 report. The episode doesn't shy away from global perspectives either, featuring a new World Health Organisation report on changes in alcohol consumption from 2010 to 2019.
Additionally, it discusses the financial and social implications of freezing alcohol duties and Ireland's move towards minimum unit pricing. With its mix of research findings, policy debates, and expert opinions, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the multifaceted impact of alcohol policies on society. Whether you're a policy enthusiast, a health professional, or someone affected by alcohol-related issues, you'll find valuable insights and discussions that resonate with your concerns.