The Excerpt podcast: More women are dying from alcohol-related causes. Why?

Alcohol-Related Deaths on the Rise for Women: A Report on the Factors and Risks

Introduction

On a special episode of The Excerpt podcast, a recent groundbreaking study revealed that alcohol-related deaths are surging for women even more than for men. This report discusses the factors contributing to this increase and highlights the risks associated with alcohol consumption for women.

Study Findings

A study conducted by doctors at Hofstra University analyzed data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on over 600,000 alcohol-related deaths between 1999 and 2020. The study found that from 2018 to 2020, the increase in alcohol-related deaths was over 12% for men and almost 15% for women.

Factors Contributing to the Increase

One of the key factors behind this increase is the rise in alcohol consumption among women. Women are drinking more in their teenage years and as they age, particularly those over 65. Additionally, women face unique stressors and are targeted by marketing schemes promoting alcohol consumption. These factors, combined with the distinct physiological differences between men and women in metabolizing alcohol, contribute to the higher mortality rates among women.

Differences in Alcohol Metabolism

Women metabolize alcohol differently than men due to several key factors. Women generally have a smaller body size and lower water content, leading to a higher concentration of alcohol in their system. Additionally, women have a lower amount of an enzyme in their small intestine that metabolizes alcohol, resulting in a stronger effect of alcohol when consumed.

Psychological Risk Factors

Anxiety, depression, and pandemic-related loneliness are some of the psychological risk factors driving the increase in alcohol-related deaths among women. Women often use alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress, and the prevalence of mood disorders and loneliness further contributes to this behavior.

Changing Public Guidance on Alcohol Consumption

Previously, moderate alcohol consumption was considered healthy. However, current public guidance advises against viewing alcohol as beneficial to health. Certain populations, such as individuals under 21, pregnant women, those taking medication that interacts with alcohol, and older adults, should avoid alcohol altogether. For those who do drink, the recommended limits are one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

Culture and Stigma around Drinking

There is a culture around drinking that has become more prevalent, particularly among women. Social media platforms and marketing techniques normalize drinking and create a sense of glamour and fun around alcohol consumption. However, this normalization can lead to harmful drinking habits that many women may not be aware of. Stigma also plays a significant role in preventing individuals from seeking help for alcohol-related issues.

Increasing Awareness and Conversations

While there is growing interest in the medical and mental health communities regarding the risks of alcohol consumption, the general public may not be fully aware of these risks. It is crucial to have conversations about alcohol’s impact on health, including its association with high blood pressure, cancer, mood disorders, and gastrointestinal issues. Increased awareness can help individuals make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption.

Evaluating Alcohol Consumption Habits

Individuals who want to reevaluate their relationship with alcohol can utilize online resources such as the Rethinking Drinking program by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). This program provides information on standard drink sizes, potential risks, and offers resources for cutting back or abstaining from alcohol. It is also advisable to discuss alcohol use with a primary care provider to assess personal risk and determine if any changes are necessary.

Healthy Alternatives for Stress Relief

There are several healthy alternatives to alcohol for stress relief. Regular exercise and movement have been shown to reduce anxiety and depression. Building a supportive community, prioritizing good sleep, and maintaining a nutritious diet are also effective ways to de-stress. Other practices such as meditation, yoga, and acupuncture can also contribute to overall well-being.

Conclusion

Alcohol-related deaths among women are on the rise, highlighting the need for increased awareness and conversations about the risks associated with alcohol consumption. By understanding the factors contributing to this increase and evaluating personal alcohol consumption habits, individuals can make informed decisions to prioritize their health and well-being.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis

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

The article discusses the increasing alcohol-related deaths among women, highlighting the health risks and gender disparities. This connects to SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all. It also addresses SDG 5, which focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering women. Additionally, the article touches on SDG 10, which aims to reduce inequalities within and among countries.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol
• 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
• Target 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard

The article highlights the need to strengthen the prevention and treatment of alcohol abuse, which aligns with Target 3.5 under SDG 3. It also emphasizes the importance of addressing gender disparities in alcohol-related deaths, connecting to Target 5.5 under SDG 5. Furthermore, it discusses the impact of social and marketing factors on women’s alcohol consumption, which relates to Target 10.3 under SDG 10.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator 3.5.1: Coverage of treatment interventions (pharmacological, psychosocial, and rehabilitation and aftercare services) for substance use disorders
• Indicator 5.5.1: Proportion of seats held by women in national parliaments and local governments
• Indicator 10.3.1: Proportion of 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

The article does not explicitly mention specific indicators, but based on the identified targets, the following indicators can be used to measure progress:

• Indicator 3.5.1 can measure the coverage of treatment interventions for substance use disorders, including alcohol abuse.
• Indicator 5.5.1 can measure the proportion of women holding seats in national parliaments and local governments, indicating progress towards gender equality in decision-making positions.
• Indicator 10.3.1 can measure the proportion of the population reporting discrimination or harassment based on gender or other grounds, reflecting progress in reducing inequalities and eliminating discriminatory practices.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: usatoday.com

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