AMA brochure provides advice to help Australians be more responsible about drinking alcohol
The AMA today released a brochure containing practical advice to help Australians to be more knowledgeable and responsible about alcohol consumption.
AMA Vice President, Dr Steve Hambleton, said today that the AMA wants people, especially young people, to start the New Year with a greater understanding of the harmful effects of excessive and irresponsible drinking.
“We know that some people enjoy the social aspects of drinking, but they do not need to put themselves, their friends, their loved ones, and others at risk of alcohol-related harms,” Dr Hambleton said.
“Doctors see the consequences of alcohol-related violence and traffic accidents every day, particularly among young people who are more likely to exercise poor judgement and impaired decision making when drinking.
“More than half of all serious alcohol-related road injuries occur among 15-24 year olds, and alcohol is associated with about one-third of self-inflicted injuries and suicides.
“Thirteen per cent of deaths among 14-17 year olds are due to alcohol-related harms, including road injury, suicide and violent assault, with a further 60 teenagers hospitalised each week.”
To help young people understand the risks associated with alcohol, the AMA has produced a brochure, Alcohol and Your Health: Make Informed Choices, which contains information about the short and long term health impacts of excessive drinking.
“At this time of year especially, when people tend to drink more alcohol, the AMA is encouraging parents and other adults to discuss with young people the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption,” Dr Hambleton said.
“The brochure is an educational resource that explains in plain language that young people do not need to drink excessively to have a good time and enjoy the company of their friends. We provide information about how alcohol affects the body, and explain the dangers of consuming energy drinks with alcohol. There are tips on how to avoid drink spiking, and advice on sensible drinking and safe partying.
“If people drink excessively, they can put their friends and families at risk of alcohol-related violence and motor accidents. The AMA urges all Australians to take a responsible approach to alcohol into the New Year festivities and beyond,” Dr Hambleton said.
Alcohol and Your Health: Make Informed Choices is at http://ama.com.au/youthhealth/alcohol
28 December 2010
CONTACT: John Flannery 02 6270 5477 / 0419 494 761