BINGE DRINKING THIS FESTIVE SEASON

Consumption of alcoholic beverages by young people increases alarmingly over the holiday season every year. While some people find alcohol to be a refreshing and relaxing beverage, excessive use thereof may have far more serious implications.

What is binge drinking?

Binge drinking refers to the act of drinking a large amount of alcohol over a short period of time. Binge drinking is often described as consuming five or more drinks in a short period of time for males and four or more drinks for women.

What are the effects of binge drinking?

Binge drinking may have a number of harmful effects on one's health, both immediate and long-term, which includes:

• Alcohol poisoning

• Sexual activity that is unsafe or unprotected

• Immune system being weakened

• Childbirth complications, birth abnormalities, or foetal alcohol spectrum disorder

• Injuries from car accidents, falls, and burns

• Pancreatitis

• Cardiovascular problems such as hypertension, stroke, and/or cardiomyopathy

• Sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancy

• Risk of colon, breast, mouth, throat, oesophageal, and liver cancers are increased

• Liver disease including alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis

• Domestic violence, homicide, suicide, and sexual assault

Remember, our drinking choices have more consequences than ever before!