Question: in the world, what is more deadly than AIDS, tuberculosis and acts of violence combined? Answer: alcohol. In a recent press release published this Friday, September 21, 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that in 2016, alcohol was responsible for 3 million deaths on the planet, which corresponds to approximately 1 in 20 deaths.
Each year, 5.3% of deaths occurring on the planet are linked to alcohol: the WHO thus identifies 28% of fatal injuries (mutilation, violence between people or road accidents), 21% of fatal digestive problems (ulcers…) and 19% of cardiovascular diseases (myocardial infarction, stroke…).
Beyond mortality, WHO experts estimate that, worldwide, 237 million men and 46 million women suffer from health problems related to excessive alcohol consumption: Korsakoff syndrome, depression, cancers (larynx, esophagus, liver…), hepatitis insufficiency…
Record alcohol consumption in Europe
In terms of consumption, Europe holds a sad record: 14.8% of men and 3.5% of women drink excessively. However, experts predict an increase in alcohol consumption in Southeast Asia and America over the next 10 years.
Worldwide, 45% of alcoholic beverages consumed are spirits. Next comes beer (34%) followed by wine (12%). WHO experts indicate that, in many countries, alcohol consumption begins before the age of 15, in both boys and girls.
According to Alcool Info Service, “reasonable” alcohol consumption is limited to 2 glasses of alcohol (20 g) per day, regardless of gender. Good to know !
Read also :
Alcohol harms your health from one drink a day
Fetal alcoholization, a syndrome still too little known
2 alcohol-free days a week: are you ready?
