Scotland’s NHS is buckling under the weight of alcohol-related harm, with over 1,200 alcohol-specific deaths annually and approximately 4,000 fatalities where alcohol plays a part in diseases like cancer and heart disease. Coupled with 30,000 yearly hospital admissions due to alcohol, the healthcare system is at breaking point. Experts agree that reducing alcohol-related harm is vital to easing this crisis and ensuring a healthier Scotland.

Proven interventions are already making an impact. Scotland’s Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP), introduced in 2018, has saved an estimated 150 lives annually, particularly in deprived communities. By targeting the cheapest, most harmful alcohol products, MUP has made strides in alcohol harm reduction, but it alone cannot stem the tide.

Public health advocates are calling for stronger, coordinated policies. Proposed measures include banning alcohol advertising and sponsorships, especially those targeting younger audiences, mandating health warnings on all alcohol products, increasing alcohol duty above inflation, and separating alcohol sales in supermarkets. Together, these reforms aim to reduce the allure and accessibility of alcohol while informing the public about its risks – including links to serious diseases like cancer.

Yet, such measures face resistance from a powerful alcohol industry. Drawing a parallel with the tobacco sector, the industry employs lobbying, misinformation, and economic scare tactics to block effective reforms and instead promote ineffective self-regulation. Overcoming this influence is key to enabling meaningful change.

Scotland has the opportunity to lead by example in reducing alcohol-related harm. By accelerating evidence-based strategies, the nation can ease the pressure on its overstretched NHS while building a healthier, fairer future for its people.

Source: Reform Scotland