2.6 Million Alcohol-Linked Deaths in 2019, WHO Report Reveals

2.6 Million Alcohol-Linked Deaths in 2019, WHO Report Reveals

A World Health Organization (WHO) report has highlighted the devastating impact of alcohol and substance use worldwide. The findings reveal that 3 million people died as a result of substance use in 2019, with alcohol accounting for a staggering 2.6 million of these deaths. Additionally, over 400 million people are living with substance use disorders, underscoring the widespread harm caused by these behaviours.

The Burden of Alcohol Use

The numbers are stark. WHO data shows that two-thirds of alcohol-related deaths were men, with the European and African regions bearing the highest toll. Adolescents and young adults are particularly vulnerable. Close to 25% of 15-19-year-olds reported drinking alcohol, with the highest rates of daily consumption seen in Europe and the Americas. Tragically, individuals aged 20 to 39 made up a significant percentage of alcohol-attributable deaths in 2019.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General, emphasised the wider impact in a press release, stating, “Substance use severely harms individual health, increasing the risk of chronic diseases, mental health conditions and tragically resulting in millions of preventable deaths every year. It places a heavy burden on families and communities, increasing exposure to accidents, injuries and violence.”

Health Risks and the Role of Alcohol

Alcohol is now recognised as a class one carcinogen, alongside substances like asbestos and tobacco. Its link to chronic illnesses, including heart disease, liver disease, and multiple types of cancer, remains a dominant factor in deaths caused by long-term consumption.

Moderate drinking—defined as up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women—can already pose health risks. Binge drinking, described as five or more drinks in a session for men (four or more for women), and heavy drinking amplify these dangers. Alcohol’s classification as a harmful substance is not only due to its chronic impacts but also its role in injuries, accidents, and mental health crises, including addiction.

Dr Jennifer Ashton, medical correspondent for ABC News, highlighted the dangers on “Good Morning America,” stating, “[Alcohol] is one of the most widely used drugs globally, definitely having a negative impact on health.”

A Decline, but Challenges Remain

While alcohol-related death rates have declined since 2010, the WHO report warns the numbers remain “unacceptably high.” Prevention strategies must target not only excessive consumption but also the cultural norms around alcohol use.

The latest findings emphasise the need for urgent action—through policy changes, education campaigns, and support for individuals at risk. Communities and governments worldwide have a critical role to play in reducing these preventable deaths and safeguarding public health.

It’s important for everyone to understand how much alcohol can harm our health. By making better choices and spreading awareness, we can help reduce the problems caused by drinking too much.

Source: ABC News

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