With Father's Day fast approaching this Sunday (2nd Sept) Australian's across the country are scratching their heads trying to decide what gift to give Dad this year. To avoid offering the same old socks, jumpers, and chocolates, it's easy to see alcohol as the answer.
But are you aware of the risks associated with alcohol consumption?
The facts
Each year on Father's Day Australian's spend $34 million on liquor, as a gesture of appreciation for fathers, according to research company IBIS World. However, when we look at the facts, the gift of booze could be having a detrimental impact on your Dad's health.
Evidence published in
The Lancet shows that no level of alcohol consumption is safe for your health. The risk of all-cause mortality, and of cancers specifically, rises with increasing levels of consumption.
It was also revealed that alcohol is the leading global risk factor for death and disability for those aged 15-49 years.
Substantial health loss
In addition to this, the latest report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) found that the consumption of alcohol is one of the three major causes of preventable disease and illness in Australia (the other two being tobacco and other drugs).
Around a third of Australians aged 14 and over drank more than four standard drinks in one sitting, contrary to guidelines. Alcohol is the most commonly used drug in Australia and according to the 2016 'Trends in alcohol use and health-related harms in NSW' report, a quarter of all adults drink at levels placing their long-term health at risk.
Alcohol availability
The sale of alcohol is widespread. It's easy for people to access their preferred choice of alcohol as and when they want, including online – making alcohol increasingly difficult to avoid for those who may have an issue.
In 2015–16, there were 189.1 million litres of pure alcohol available for consumption through alcoholic beverages in Australia (AIHW).
A 2016 study by the
Sax Institute for NSW Ministry of Health, found that reducing the hours alcohol outlets can sell late at night can substantially reduce rates of alcohol-related violence. There are also many studies that have found changes in the density of alcohol outlets are associated with changes in the rate of health problems with a community.
Give your Dad a healthy Father's Day
Why not give your Dad a healthy alternative this Father's Day? Avoid buying booze and give something that can keep your Dad healthy and strong.
Get Healthy is a free telephone-based coaching service that provides people in NSW over 18 with a personal health coach to guide and support them on their journey to live a healthy life. Why not let your Dad know about it if you or he is concerned about his drinking or weight? Help your dad to drink less alcohol, get active and eat well.
If you want to talk to someone about alcohol call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) on 1800 250 015. It is a free, 24-hour phone service offering information, support and advice.
Want to know whether your drinking habits are putting you at risk? Find out with the Your Room
Risk Assessment.
