Beware the binge drinking pensioners!

For decades, the younger generations have had a pretty bad rap when it comes to alcohol, and it’s been the older generations who have arguably been quick to point the finger at them. However all that may be changing, because according to a recent NHS survey, younger adults are now much less likely to be living the party animal lifestyle and it is in fact the older generations that are more likely to binge drink! The health experts at YourGP take a deeper look at what’s really going on beneath the health headlines.

The times they are a’ changing

New NHS data from the government-backed Health Survey for England has highlighted adults aged 65-74 are nearly twice as likely to drink at levels deemed to be “risky” compared to younger adults aged 25-35.

“Risky” levels were defined as more than 14 units of alcohol per week, and 29% of people aged 65-74 fell into this category, compared to just 14% of people aged 25-35.

In stark contrast, 39% of men and 31% of women aged 16-24 described themselves as teetotal, abstaining from alcohol completely.

More than just a hangover

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), “There is no completely safe level of alcohol consumption, and any amount carries some degree of health risk”.

And whilst the UK government advises people not to exceed 14 units a week (the equivalent to 6 pints of average-strength beer or 6 medium glasses of wine), WHO states that “the carcinogenic and toxic effects of ethanol… begin from the first drop.”

Those effects can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. It can also affect the liver and pancreas, and increase the risk of several cancers including liver, breast, mouth, throat and colorectal cancers. It can also weaken the immune system, impact fertility and affect cognitive function. It can also greatly exacerbate mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.

Should the older generations be following the example of the young?

There are many reasons the younger generations are giving alcohol the swerve – a more health-conscious approach to life and a greater understanding of the effects of alcohol on physical and mental health for one.

And on a less positive note, increased concerns about drink spiking and drunken behaviour being captured and shared on social media may also factor in, not to mention the rising cost of living.

The increase in availability of alcohol-free drinks is making it easier than ever for people, whatever their age, to switch to non-alcoholic alternatives. So if you are considering cutting out the booze, there are plenty of options to wet your whistle.

For those who would rather cut it down than cut it out completely, the UK government recommends spreading your weekly limit of 14 units evenly over 3 or more days, rather than drinking them all at once. And it also advises scheduling in several alcohol-free days each week to help cut down.

Speak to the health experts

If you would like to speak to one of our experienced doctors about cutting down or cutting out alcohol, and reaping the many health benefits of doing so, book an appointment at YourGP using our simple online booking system, email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.