Harmful use of alcohol
WHO/Jonathon Passmore
© Credits
Harmful use of alcohol

Harmful use of alcohol in the Western Pacific

The harmful use of alcohol is a global problem which compromises both individual and social development. Alcohol is the world's third largest risk factor for premature mortality, disability and loss of health, resulting in 3.3 million deaths each year. Alcohol is associated with many serious social and developmental issues, including violence, child neglect and abuse, and absenteeism in the workplace. It also causes harm far beyond the physical and psychological health of the drinker by affecting the well-being and health of people around the drinker. An intoxicated person can harm others or put them at risk of traffic accidents or violent behaviour, or negatively affect co-workers, relatives, friends or strangers.

WHO/Yoshi Shimizu
© Credits

200 diseases and injuries conditions

Alcohol consumption is a causal factor in more than 200 disease and injury conditions.

 

WHO/Francisco Guerrero
© Credits

One out of four

deaths in the 20-39 age group are attributed to alcohol

WHO/S. Volkov
© Credits

3.3 million deaths

Worldwide, 3.3 million deaths every year result from harmful use of alcohol

 

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