Alcohol deaths fall, official figures show

Published: 27 January, 2011

There were 8,664 alcohol-related deaths in 2009, 367 fewer than recorded in 2008, according to the Office for National Statistics. But the number of deaths is still up 26% on a decade ago.

Men in the UK drank 16.3 units of alcohol a week on average in 2009, down from 17.4 in 2008, and women consumed eight units a week on average, down from 9.4 the previous year.

WSTA chief executive Jeremy Beadles said: "The fall in average weekly consumption amongst men and women continues the trend of declining consumption in recent years and the marked decrease in binge-drinking amongst men in the 16-24 age group is particularly welcome.

"It suggests the message about the risks of excessive alcohol consumption is getting through and reinforces the need for targeted action to tackle those groups most at risk of alcohol misuse."

Don Shenker, chief executive of Alcohol Concern, said: "The slight fall in 2009 in alcohol-related deaths mirrors a slight drop in alcohol consumption, and while this is positive, is wholly due to a drop in consumer spending as a result of the recession.

"It is very likely that alcohol consumption will rise again once the economy picks up. Government alcohol policy should ensure alcohol becomes less affordable permanently, not just in an economic downturn."

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