Alcohol consumption continues to represent a significant risk factor for the population’s health, affecting both adults and adolescents. National data shows a high level of consumption and episodes of excessive drinking. In the context of the National Alcohol-Free Day, marked on October 2nd, specialists draw attention to the effects of alcohol on health, safety, and the well-being of families and communities, reports IPN.

Over 63% of adults aged between 18 and 69 in Moldova have consumed alcohol in the last 30 days. Moreover, about 14% of the respondents of the national STEPS study stated that they had episodes of excessive consumption – that is, any amount of six or more glasses of alcohol drunk on a single occasion. According to ANSP, the phenomenon is more common among men than women.

The agency mentions a high consumption of alcohol among teenagers as well. According to the most recent European Study on Alcohol and Other Drug Consumption among Students – ESPAD, 70% of 15-16 year old teenagers in Moldova have consumed alcohol at least once in their lifetime, and 44% – in the last 30 days.

At the same time, almost half of the teenagers stated that they had their first alcoholic drink at the age of 13 or earlier. ANSP warns that alcohol can affect the teenagers’ judgement and self-control, and may promote risky behaviors, traumas, accidents and violence.

According to the World Health Organization, alcohol consumption is associated with over 200 diseases, conditions, and types of injuries, causing approximately 2.6 million deaths annually worldwide. Moreover, on the European continent, alcohol consumption is associated with approximately 800 thousand deaths per year, about 10% of the total number of deaths.

ANSP states that alcohol is classified as a carcinogenic agent and can cause at least seven types of cancer. Therefore, the agency recommends that the population avoid alcohol consumption or reduce as much as possible the quantity and frequency of it. Also, alcohol should be avoided before driving a vehicle and during pregnancy, and children and teenagers should not be offered alcoholic beverages.