Alcohol-Related Deaths in the U.S. Have Doubled Over Two Decades
A recent study from Florida Atlantic University reveals a troubling increase in alcohol-related deaths in the United States, nearly doubling from 1999 to 2020, Earth.com reported yesterday.
The mortality rate rose from 10.7 to 21.6 per 100,000 people, with total deaths escalating from 19,356 to 48,870. This alarming trend affected all age groups, with the most significant rise—nearly fourfold—seen in individuals aged 25 to 34.
Gender disparities are notable; while men consistently had higher death rates, women experienced a larger proportional increase, with deaths rising from 4.8 to 12 per 100,000. The Midwest reported the highest regional mortality increase, with deaths among Asian and Pacific Islander communities rising 2.4 times.
The study’s authors emphasize the importance of targeted healthcare interventions to address the rising alcohol mortality epidemic, particularly in light of coexisting health issues like obesity and diabetes. They advocate for routine screening for alcohol use in primary care settings.
From an Islamic perspective, alcohol consumption is prohibited, since it is seen as harmful to both individual’s physical and spiritual health as well as societal well-being. This stance aligns with the findings of the study, highlighting the need for awareness and preventive measures against alcohol-related harms.