More drinking during COVID-19 pandemic hastened alcohol use disorder for some, experts say
More drinking during COVID-19 pandemic hastened alcohol use disorder for some, experts say cleveland.com
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The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Alcohol Use Disorder and its Potential Link to Cancer
Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in alcohol consumption, which has raised concerns among health experts about the potential long-term consequences. This report explores the impact of the pandemic on alcohol use disorder and its potential link to cancer rates.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize the importance of promoting good health and well-being for all individuals. Addressing alcohol use disorder and its potential consequences aligns with SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
The Impact of the Pandemic on Alcohol Use Disorder
Factors Influencing Alcohol Use Disorder
Various factors contribute to the development of alcohol use disorder, including brain chemistry, family history, and overall mental health. The pandemic has exacerbated these risk factors, leading to an increase in alcohol use disorder cases.
The Role of the Pandemic
The pandemic has disrupted people’s routines and social interactions, causing them to turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism. This has resulted in a higher prevalence of alcohol use disorder among individuals who were already at risk.
Challenges in Recovery
The closure of in-person support groups and limited access to addiction treatment services during the pandemic have made it challenging for individuals in recovery to maintain their sobriety.
The Link Between Alcohol and Cancer
Increased Cancer Risks
Alcohol use disorder is associated with an increased risk of several types of cancer, including bowel cancer and female breast cancer. The rise in alcohol consumption during the pandemic may lead to a surge in cancer rates in the future.
Biological Mechanisms
Alcohol breaks down in the body through biological mechanisms that contribute to the development of cancer. The World Health Organization emphasizes that any level of alcohol consumption poses a risk of cancer.
Symptoms and Treatments for Alcohol Use Disorder
Identifying Alcohol Use Disorder
Healthcare providers assess various symptoms to diagnose alcohol use disorder, including increased alcohol consumption, unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop drinking, and negative consequences in personal and social life.
Treatment Options
Treatment for alcohol use disorder may involve medication, counseling, and support groups. It is crucial for individuals to seek help from healthcare providers or utilize self-testing tools available online.
Conclusion
Addressing the Impact of the Pandemic on Alcohol Use Disorder
Efforts should be made to raise awareness about the potential consequences of increased alcohol consumption during the pandemic. This includes promoting healthy habits, providing accessible addiction treatment services, and supporting individuals in recovery.
Contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals
Addressing alcohol use disorder aligns with SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all. By addressing this issue, we can contribute to creating a healthier and more resilient society.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol.
- SDG 5.5: Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and public life.
- SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
- SDG 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator for SDG 3.5: Number of people receiving treatment for substance abuse disorders.
- Indicator for SDG 5.5: Proportion of seats held by women in national parliaments and local governments.
- Indicator for SDG 10.2: Proportion of the population reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed in the previous 12 months on the basis of a ground of discrimination prohibited under international human rights law.
- Indicator for SDG 16.1: Number of victims of intentional homicide per 100,000 population, by sex and age.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol. | Number of people receiving treatment for substance abuse disorders. |
| SDG 5: Gender Equality | Target 5.5: Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and public life. | Proportion of seats held by women in national parliaments and local governments. |
| SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities | Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status. | Proportion of the population reporting having personally felt discriminated against or harassed in the previous 12 months on the basis of a ground of discrimination prohibited under international human rights law. |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere. | Number of victims of intentional homicide per 100,000 population, by sex and age. |
Note: The indicators listed in the table are examples and may not cover all possible indicators relevant to the identified targets.
Copyright: Dive into this article, curated with care by SDG Investors Inc. Our advanced AI technology searches through vast amounts of data to spotlight how we are all moving forward with the Sustainable Development Goals. While we own the rights to this content, we invite you to share it to help spread knowledge and spark action on the SDGs.
Fuente: cleveland.com
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