The risks from excessive drinking

The risks of frequently drinking above the safe levels are:

1. weight-gain – a pint of beer contains nearly 200 calories (more than a packet of crisps);
2. heart problems – reduced efficiency and increased risk of disease;
3. nerve damage;
4. depression – two-thirds of suicide attempts are alcohol related;
5. impotence and infertility – even moderate drinking will reduce sexual performance (though not desire);
6. cancer – of the liver, mouth, tongue and throat;
7. liver disease – hepatitis and cirrhosis;
8. digestive problems – ulcers, gastritis and pancreatitis.
Alcohol is frequently a factor contributing to violence (including a quarter of all murders) and accidents (including half of traffic deaths). One in four male hospital admissions is related to alcohol.