Summary
A new NHS survey reveals that nearly a quarter of adults in England do not drink alcohol, with younger and less affluent groups abstaining more than others. The survey also highlights that while risky drinking remains a concern, younger adults are generally drinking less compared to older adults. The report calls attention to the ongoing issues of alcohol-related harm, despite changing drinking habits.
Key Facts
- About 24% of adults in England reported not drinking alcohol in the past year.
- Young men are leading the trend, with 39% not drinking, compared to 16% of men aged 65 and older.
- Among young women aged 16 to 24, 31% refrain from drinking, while among older women aged 55 to 64, only 17% do so.
- Older people aged 65 to 74 are more likely to engage in risky drinking compared to those aged 25 to 34.
- People in less affluent areas tend to drink less than those in wealthier areas.
- The NHS recommends not exceeding 14 units of alcohol per week, with guidelines on how much constitutes a unit.
- Despite some reductions in risky drinking, concerns about alcohol-related health issues persist.
- Advocates suggest measures like minimum pricing and health warnings to reduce alcohol harm.
