Why is alcohol a public health issue?
Alcohol use contributes to 3 million deaths across the world each year. Alcohol use is a contributory factor in physical and mental health problems, premature death and disability, as well as domestic violence, crime and road traffic accidents. In a statement in The Lancet journal, the World Health Organization noted that “no safe amount of alcohol consumption for cancers and health can be established".
In Ireland, there were 1,094 alcohol-related deaths in 2017, representing 4% of all deaths. In Northern Ireland, 350 alcohol-specific deaths were registered in 2021, accounting for 2% of all deaths registered. IPH has developed an all-island alcohol data repository sgnposting to sources of information on alcohol use, retail and harms in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Addressing the harms associated with alcohol use through evidence-based prevention and treatment strategies can help to minimise its negative impact on public health and reduce health inequality.
WHO Resource for Journalists - Reporting about alcohol: a guide for journalists
Support Services
If you, or someone you know, is affected by alcohol, the following supports and services are available:
