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To support the free and open dissemination of research findings and information on alcoholism and alcohol-related problems. To encourage open access to peer-reviewed articles free for all to view.

For full versions of posted research articles readers are encouraged to email requests for "electronic reprints" (text file, PDF files, FAX copies) to the corresponding or lead author, who is highlighted in the posting.

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Wednesday, February 24, 2010

News Release - Under 40s risking serious health harm


Scotland's culture of heavy and binge drinking is having an increasing impact on the health of younger people, according to statistics published today.

And the nation is also bucking the international trend for chronic liver disease. While most European countries have seen levels fall, rates in Scotland have almost trebled over the last 15 years.

The Alcohol Hospital Statistics and Liver Disease Statistics, which are published today by ISD Scotland, show:

  • Scotland sees, on average, 115 hospital discharges per day due to alcohol misuse
  • Alcohol-related discharges have increased by nine per cent over the past five years
  • Alcohol-related discharges have increased by 22 per cent for 30-34 year olds and by 19 per cent for 35-39 year olds
  • Scotland's rate of chronic liver disease almost trebled over the last 15 years - and continues to rise
  • While death rates have been falling across most of Europe, they remain high in Scotland
  • Chronic liver disease death rates amongst 30-39 year olds have risen almost five-fold since the mid 1980s
  • Rates of hospital discharge for chronic liver disease among young Scottish women (25-29) has increased seven fold over the last 20 years.
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