One in five drinking above recommended limits

One in five adults in Jersey drink more than the recommended amount of alcohol, a government survey has shown.

The Jersey Opinions and Lifestyle Survey, which collects detailed information on a wide range of topics on an annual basis, was completed by 1,200 people.

It showed 20% of people that consumed alcohol drank above the UK's NHS recommendation of 14 units of alcohol per week.

Director of Public Health Prof Peter Bradley said it was acknowledged that "alcohol consumption in Jersey is relatively high", but added that it had "come down an awful lot, so we just need to carry on that positive trend".

He said: "The health consequences in the short-term are things like gaining weight, not being able to sleep, becoming more anxious and having higher blood pressure.

"Eventually that can turn into more serious conditions like heart disease, liver disease or even cancer."

The survey found the proportion of adults who drank alcohol four or more times a week increased with age.

Prof Bradley said he thought the "younger generation are leading the way to a great extent" in some decreases in alcohol consumption.

He said: "There are many young people who have really reduced their consumption now and certainly drinking less, and maybe not at all.

"That is something that older generations may want to take note on, but, of course, there is big variation in any age group."

Prof Bradley highlighted the results of a report which found that, in 2021, there were 725 hospital admissions specifically related to alcohol in Jersey.

"This is one area where we can really help our health service," he said.

"We are seeing over 700 admissions to hospital every year and general practitioners will also be seeing people with alcohol related problems."

He added: "It's really a question of just thinking about your alcohol intake, maybe be conscious of the levels that are set, and trying to gradually reduce that alcohol consumption over a period of time.

"I think we will really see a benefit in society if we cut down just a little bit."

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