Underage Drinking Risks Prompt Action in UK

November 2008

In the United States, binge drinking, particularly among teens and young adults, continues to be a problem. According to a 2007 survey, 26 percent of those ages 12 to 20 admitted to binge drinking in the previous month. The United Kingdom is now considering taking steps to curb the same behavior overseas.

British health officials may enact a ban on happy hours that will stop restaurants and bars from discounting alcohol. The government is also looking to spend approximately $15 million on a new public awareness campaign and improved enforcement of laws against underage drinking. Finally, officials are contemplating a ban on drinking games and speed-drinking events that are popular at some British pubs.

Health advocates have warned that an increase in liver-related deaths among young people may indicate a future epidemic. In the United States, there were more than 145,000 emergency rooms visits by youth ages 12 to 20 for injuries and other conditions linked to alcohol in 2005.