prevalence of alcohol problems

It is difficult to determine accurately the prevalence of alcohol problems. This is partly because problem drinking is often not reported and in general alcohol consumption is en underestimated. There is also a lack of agreement on definitions. Studies of prevalence in the general population (Office of Health Economics) suggest that 1 in 100 adults have serious alcohol problems and 1 in 25 adults are heavy drinkers with some alcohol-related problems.

 

Heavy Drinkers

High Est.
Low Est.
O.H.E. Est.
3,000,000
1,300,000
240,000

 

Problem Drinkers

High Est.
Low Est.
O.H.E. Est.
1,300,000
500,000
70,000

 

Alcohol Dependent

High Est.
Low Est.
O.H.E. Est.
3,000,000
700,000
150,000

 

Prevalence in general practice:

Research by Wiseman ('87) found that a typical 2,000 patient practice will have 40 "problem drinkers" and 100 patients "at risk" of developing problems. Research suggests that G.P.s are unaware of 50 % of problem drinkers. The Royal Coll. of G.P.s ('86) found that a typical G.P. has 55 patients drinking at a high risk of self harm and another 200 facing intermediate risks. Hore ('86) found that 20 out of 1,000 patients on typical G.P. list will have experienced severe alcohol problems (most passing undetected). A study by Buchan ('83) found that problem drinkers consult their G.P. twice as often as other patients - especially for the treatment of gastrointestinal problems, depression, anxiety, accidents, etc.

Prevalence in general hospitals:

A study by Jarman & Kellet ('79) revealed that 12 - 27 % of men admitted to general medical wards were found to have alcohol - related problems.