Aussies must tackle ‘substantial’ alcohol problem

Australia has a “problem with alcohol” and citizens must play their part in creating a more responsible drinking culture, doctors have warned.

Doctors have urged Australians to take it upon themselves to create a responsible drinking culture

During a two-day conference hosted by the Australian Medical Association in Canberra, president associate professor Brian Owler declared the country’s alcohol problem was “substantial and unacceptable” and it was time to “shine a spotlight” on the problem.

“A range of factors – including the social acceptability of hazardous alcohol use, the marketing and glamourisation of alcohol, and the ready availability of alcohol and its affordability – contributes to harmful alcohol use in the Australian community,” associate professor Owler said, as reported by Fraser Coast Chronicle.

He continued to stress the medical sector was not calling for a total ban on alcohol, but a safer and more responsible drinking culture that could save lives.

“More than half of Australian drinkers consume alcohol in excess of the recommended intake, and one in five Australians drink alcohol at a level that puts them at risk of lifetime harm for injury or disease,” he added.

“As doctors, AMA members see the devastating effects of alcohol abuse ever day – from victims of domestic abuse in local general practice to victims of car accidents and senseless violence in our emergency departments.”