‘They are really struggling’: Signs point to increasing alcohol use among women
'They are really struggling': Signs point to increasing alcohol use among women Daily Herald
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Alcoholism Among Women: A Growing Concern
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Introduction
A report published this summer in the Journal of American Medical Association highlighted a concerning trend – for the first time, women are drinking greater amounts of alcohol than men. This article explores the implications of excessive alcohol consumption among women and emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Kyleigh Spratley’s Story
Kyleigh Spratley, who began drinking alcohol at the age of 12, experienced the devastating consequences of alcoholism. As an adult, she lost custody of her children, lived out of her car, and became involved in an abusive relationship. However, Spratley found hope and recovery through the Alcohol, Chemical and Treatment Center (ACT) at Ogden Regional Medical Center. Through an intensive rehabilitation program, she regained control of her life and has been sober for over two and a half years.
The Increasing Trend Among Women
The report in the Journal of American Medical Association highlighted a rapid increase in deaths related to excessive alcohol consumption, particularly among women. This trend is concerning due to the biological differences between men and women. Women have a lower amount of alcohol dehydrogenase, an enzyme that breaks down alcohol, making them more susceptible to liver disease, heart disease, and cancer. Factors contributing to the increase in alcohol consumption among women include the COVID-19 pandemic, social acceptance of alcohol, and its normalization in family gatherings and social events.
The Impact on Women’s Health
Excessive alcohol consumption poses significant health risks for women. The biological differences between men and women make women more vulnerable to alcohol-related damage. Women have a higher percentage of body fat, less water, and higher estrogen levels, which increase the vulnerability of their liver. This puts them at a higher risk of developing liver disease, heart disease, and cancer.
Seeking Help and Treatment
Recognizing the importance of seeking help for alcohol addiction, Jennifer Gorder, clinical manager of behavioral health services at Ogden Regional Medical Center, emphasizes the need for safe and proper detoxification. Abruptly stopping alcohol consumption can have dangerous consequences. The center provides physicians who administer medications to mitigate withdrawal symptoms before starting an educational and treatment program.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The issue of alcoholism among women aligns with several SDGs, including:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Excessive alcohol consumption contributes to various health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, and cancer.
- SDG 5: Gender Equality – Addressing the gender-specific impact of alcoholism is crucial to achieving gender equality.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Ensuring equal access to treatment and support for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction is essential in reducing inequalities.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – Providing effective rehabilitation programs and support systems can contribute to a just and peaceful society.
Conclusion
Alcoholism among women is a growing concern, with women now consuming greater amounts of alcohol than men. The biological differences between men and women make women more vulnerable to the adverse effects of excessive alcohol consumption. It is crucial to address this issue in line with the SDGs, emphasizing the importance of good health and well-being, gender equality, reduced inequalities, and strong institutions. Seeking help and treatment is essential for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction, as it can be a matter of life and death.
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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
The article discusses the increasing alcohol consumption among women and the negative consequences it has on their health. This connects to SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. Additionally, the article mentions societal expectations and standards for women, highlighting gender inequality, which is addressed by SDG 5.
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
The article emphasizes the need for prevention and treatment of alcohol addiction, aligning with SDG 3.5. It also highlights the societal pressures and expectations that contribute to women’s alcohol consumption, indicating the importance of promoting equal opportunities for women in decision-making processes, as stated in SDG 5.5.
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, including alcohol addiction
- Indicator for SDG 5.5: Proportion of women in leadership positions in government and public administration
The article mentions the Alcohol, Chemical and Treatment Center at Ogden Regional Medical Center, which provides rehabilitation programs for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. The number of people receiving treatment for substance abuse, including alcohol addiction, can serve as an indicator to measure progress towards SDG 3.5. Additionally, the article highlights the need for women’s equal participation in decision-making processes, indicating that the proportion of women in leadership positions in government and public administration can be used as an indicator for SDG 5.5.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 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, including alcohol addiction |
| SDG 5: Gender Equality | 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 women in leadership positions in government and public administration |
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: heraldextra.com
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