Campaign to reduce alcohol abuse in Sussex (From The Argus)

Campaign to reduce alcohol abuse in Sussex

6:00pm Tuesday 20th November 2012 in News

Health bosses are urging people to talk about drinking.

Alcohol Awareness Week runs until Sunday and this year is focusing on getting a debate going on issues such as physical health risks and social problems caused by drinking too much.

Health improvement manager for East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, Peter Aston, said: “Every year we spend around £15.5 million in East Sussex treating and caring for people because of the harm caused by alcohol.

“However, when it comes to talking about alcohol we tend to avoid discussing that more negative side.

“So this year, during Alcohol Awareness Week, let’s try and have more honest conversations with our family, friends and colleagues, sharing both our positive and negative experiences to see if we can reduce that harm and cost.”

East Sussex director of public health Diana Grice said: “Alcohol misuse is a significant issue.

“Locally people who drink are drinking more and the rate of people admitted to hospital for alcohol related conditions is increasing in some areas of the county.

“Many people do not realise that their drinking habits are causing harm to them and their families.

“I urge everyone to think about their drinking and share their thoughts with friends, families and colleagues. The more we talk about the impact of alcohol in a realistic way the easier it is for those with a problem to seek help.”

Alcohol related health problems include cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke.

For more details call 0300 111 2470 or visit www.alcoholconcern.org.uk.

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