Studies find binge drinking rise
David Uren; 17/6/08
The Government’s claim that binge drinking among teenagers is a problem has been supported by new research, but doubt has been cast on whether price increases make a difference. Health Minister Nicola Roxon yesterday cited findings that the number of women aged between 18 and 24 who were admitted to hospital as a result of alcohol abuse had more than doubled over the past eight years, from six to 15 per 10,000 people. “Our young people are turning up in hospitals as a result of alcohol abuse, they are hurting each other under the influence of alcohol, they are driving home drunk and they are causing themselves long-term harm,” she said. The study by the AER Centre for Alcohol Policy Research says: “While the proportion of young people drinking at levels that exceed the National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines hasn’t changed markedly, more young people are drinking at extremely high levels and thus ending up in hospital.”
See: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23875976-5013404,00.html
Kevin Rudd stands by his advice on excessive alcohol consumption
Matthew Franklin; 17/6/08
Kevin Rudd has defended his campaign against excessive alcohol consumption amid continuing criticism of advice suggesting having four mid-sized beers is binge drinking. The Prime Minister yesterday said he stood by the National Health and Medical Research Council advice, attacked on Sunday by former health minister Tony Abbott as an attempt by the Government to create moral panic. Mr Rudd insisted binge drinking was a serious concern to parents and he accused the Opposition of treating the problem with contempt. “Mums and dads are anxious when their kids go out of a Friday and Saturday night as to what is going to happen to them,” Mr Rudd said. “People (are) being taken to accident and emergency in greater and greater numbers.”
See: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23875970-5013404,00.html