A growing body of evidence is pushing for a national strategy to address the rising toll of alcohol-related harm in the UK, with experts highlighting the urgent need for improved screening, care, and industry accountability.

Alcohol consumption, which affects approximately 80% of adults in the UK, has been linked to a wide range of health issues, including liver disease, mental health problems, and cancer.

While no safe level of alcohol consumption has been established, the risks increase with the amount consumed, and the harmful effects are disproportionately felt by socially disadvantaged groups.

According to British Medical Journal data, alcohol-related deaths in England surged by 42.2% between 2019 and 2023, the highest recorded figure.

The Increase in alcohol-related deaths, especially from liver disease, reflects a broader rise in risky drinking behaviors, which worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite these statistics, the provision of alcohol treatment services has seen significant cuts in recent years, leaving many individuals without the necessary support.

The lack of adequate services is underscored by the fact that fewer than 1% of individuals treated for alcohol dependence in England and Wales receive residential rehabilitation care—far below the European average of 11%.

Currently, only 15-18% of alcohol-dependent individuals access treatment services, compared to 70% of people with other chronic conditions, such as diabetes. The stigma surrounding alcohol dependence, with 21-43% of those affected saying shame prevents them from seeking help, further complicates the issue.

Experts argue that systemic change is essential, starting with universal screening for alcohol misuse across primary care, acute hospitals, and mental health services.

This would enable earlier intervention, improve patient outcomes, and direct resources where they are most needed. Despite some efforts at screening, these initiatives have remained inconsistent and short-lived, lacking the necessary strategic support.

Sustained funding is crucial to create integrated alcohol care pathways across the NHS and social care systems.

Many individuals entering alcohol treatment services also require mental health support—nearly 71% of adults and 48% of young people seeking treatment also need mental health care.

Yet, mental health services are often unprepared to address the dual challenges of alcohol dependence and mental health crises. Inadequate crisis care pathways for those suffering from both conditions have been identified as a critical gap.

A key barrier to progress has been the powerful influence of the alcohol industry, which continues to downplay the associated harms and resist measures to curb overconsumption.

Unlike the gambling industry, which faces a “polluter pays” levy for its societal impact, alcohol producers have seen cuts in alcohol duty, making it easier for them to expand their market.

Experts believe that a national strategy could help provide a more consistent and effective response, similar to the measures already in place for tobacco and gambling. (Anadolu Agency)