BOOZE BOMBSHELL: Aussies in Their 50s and 60s Are the BIGGEST Offenders When It Comes to Risky Drinking – Exceeding National Health Guidelines at Alarming Rates
- Stunning new report reveals people in their 50s and 60s are more likely to drink at levels that exceed national guidelines, putting them at risk of alcohol-related disease and cancers.
- Women in their 50s and men in their 60s are among the most likely to engage in risky drinking habits, with 28% and 44% respectively exceeding recommended limits.
- Health advocates warn that the alcohol industry is targeting vulnerable groups, including young people and those in their 50s and 60s, with aggressive marketing tactics.
- Calls are being made for a complete ban on alcohol advertising during sporting events and a two-hour delay between online ordering and delivery to reduce alcohol-related harm.
A shocking new report has exposed the alarming truth about Australia’s drinking habits, revealing that people in their 50s and 60s are the biggest offenders when it comes to risky drinking. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), a staggering 32.3% of people in their 50s and 33.2% of people in their 60s are exceeding national health guidelines, putting them at risk of alcohol-related disease and cancers.
Women in their 50s and men in their 60s are among the most likely to engage in risky drinking habits, with 28% and 44% respectively exceeding recommended limits. The AIHW report highlights that Australia’s older population faces unique challenges, including chronic pain, health co-morbidities, and increased social isolation, which can contribute to risky drinking habits.
Health advocates are sounding the alarm, warning that the alcohol industry is targeting vulnerable groups, including young people and those in their 50s and 60s, with aggressive marketing tactics. “The industry is pushing the narrative that people are drinking less, while targeting people with marketing on digital platforms,” said Ayla Chorley, CEO of the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE).
A recent pilot study by FARE found that 14-17 year olds were targeted with an astonishing 31 ads for junk food, alcohol, and gambling in just one day. “The alcohol industry targeting them is a real concern for us,” said Ms Chorley. “One-sixth of young people have experienced alcohol-related harm from adults around them, and two-thirds of this has taken place within the home.”
FARE is renewing calls for a complete ban on alcohol advertising during sporting events and a two-hour delay between online ordering and delivery to reduce alcohol-related harm. “Online delivery has made alcohol more easily accessible than ever,” said Ms Chorley. “At a bar, there are checks in place for alcohol, but in the home, there are none. The marketing is going unchecked.”
Meanwhile, the alcohol industry is defending its practices, claiming that Australians’ drinking habits have shifted and younger people are taking fewer risks when it comes to consumption. However, health advocates remain concerned about the power of the alcohol lobby and its impact on public health.
“The industry operates under world-leading codes of conduct and regulations, covering all aspects of responsible service, advertising, and online sales,” said Alistair Coe, executive director of Alcohol Beverages Australia. However, FARE argues that the industry is taking advantage of Australians drinking more at home and targeting vulnerable groups with aggressive marketing tactics.