Drinking guidelines ‘out of touch with reality’

The landmark study by the UK Centre for Tobacco and Alcohol Studies, which includes Stirling University, explored how drinkers on both sides of the Border perceived the current UK guidelines, which suggest men should not exceed three to four units of alcohol a day, while women should not drink more than two to three units daily. Published today in the journal Addiction, the findings reveal that the guidelines are generally deemed irrelevant in a country where most people do not drink every day but may drink heavily at the weekend. The study also found respondents also thought the recommended quantities were unrealistic, as they did not recognise that many people are motivated to drink to get drunk. Linda Bauld, professor of health policy at Stirling University, said: “Both policy makers and health professionals may find the research results useful in considering how people interpret current guidelines and any place these guidelines may have in providing information to advise people about alcohol consumption.” Researchers found that participants preferred the current Australian and Canadian guidelines when they were told about them. In Canada, the guidelines recommend no more than two drinks a day or ten per week for women, while for men it is three drinks a day or 15 per week. Australia’s advice suggests no more than four drinks on a single occasion, or two on a standard day. Some participants in the study did regulate their drinking, but this was often due to practical issues, rather than health concerns or due to the guidance. Presenting the guidelines in units was also seen as unhelpful as the majority of people measure their intake in the number of drinks or containers – bottles, glasses or pints – they consume. Melanie Lovatt from Sheffield University, who led the study, said: “These findings not only help to explain why some drinkers disregard current guidelines, but also show that people make decisions about their drinking by considering their responsibilities and lifestyle, rather than just their health.” The results were welcomed by campaigners, who called for a wider review of price, availability and marketing of alcohol. Barbara O’Donnell, acting chief executive at Alcohol Focus Scotland, said: “It has come at an important time, as the UK’s Chief Medical Officer is currently undertaking a review of the drinking guidelines to see if they need updating. Alcohol is linked to a wide range of health problems, including seven types of cancer. Binge drinking has additional risks including accidents and violence.” Half of Scots are unaware how many unit are in a pint of beer, or a glass of wine, which inhibits their ability to make informed decisions, she said. She added: “The review of guidelines is a step in the right direction but if we are serious about the harm alcohol causes we must also take action on price, availability and marketing.