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By Seraphina Eberhardt, East County Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies
October 22. 2024 (San Diego) -- Alcohol consumption is embedded in our social fabric, often marking celebrations, casual gatherings and daily routines. While moderate drinking is generally accepted, alcohol misuse brings significant social costs that affect our communities at large. Understanding and addressing these impacts helps build a healthier and safer society.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that excessive alcohol use costs the United States approximately $249 billion annually. This figure includes healthcare expenses, lost productivity, law enforcement and criminal justice costs, and motor vehicle crashes. About 72% of this cost is due to losses in workplace productivity, including absenteeism, reduced performance, and alcohol-related injuries.
From a public health perspective, alcohol misuse is a leading cause of preventable death and disease. It contributes to numerous health issues, including liver disease, heart problems, and various cancers. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) reports that nearly 95,000 people die each year from alcohol-related causes, making it the third leading preventable cause of death in the country.
The impact of alcohol misuse extends beyond individual health, deeply affecting families and communities. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), families experiencing alcohol misuse may face strained relationships, domestic violence, and instability. Children in such households are at a higher risk of developing emotional and behavioral problems, which can have long-lasting effects. Additionally, the cycle of alcohol misuse can increase the likelihood of future substance use issues among children of alcohol-dependent parents.
These social costs are not distributed evenly. Vulnerable groups, including low-income communities and minorities, often bear a disproportionate burden. According to the NIH, these populations may have limited access to healthcare and support services, exacerbating the negative effects of alcohol misuse. A comprehensive approach that includes environmental controls and support measures can help mitigate these issues. Environmental controls aim to reduce alcohol misuse through policies and community strategies that influence behavior in a non-stigmatizing way. This can involve regulating alcohol availability, implementing responsible beverage service training, and enhancing community-based interventions.
Education and public awareness are components of this approach. Community programs, schools, and workplaces can all contribute to informing individuals about the risks associated with alcohol misuse and promoting healthier choices. Integrating alcohol screening and brief interventions into primary healthcare settings allows for early identification and support before misuse escalates into more severe issues.
One example of a successful initiative is the San Diego County Binge and Underage Drinking Initiative (BUDI). Operated by the Institute for Public Strategies and funded by the County of San Diego’s Health and Human Services Agency, BUDI promotes safe and healthy behaviors through a collaborative, multi-agency approach. This initiative supports community conditions that reduce alcohol-related harms and enhances public health.
Ensuring that support services are accessible and culturally appropriate helps address the unique challenges faced by different communities. Partnerships with local organizations can further enhance the effectiveness of these interventions. The social costs of alcohol misuse are extensive and require a coordinated effort to address. By focusing on education, community support, and targeted environmental controls, we can work together to reduce harm and build a healthier, more resilient society. Through ongoing collaboration and commitment, meaningful progress can be made in mitigating the impact of alcohol misuse on our communities.
IPS works alongside communities to build power, challenge systems of inequity, protect health, and improve quality of life. IPS has a vision for safe, secure, vibrant and healthy communities where everyone can thrive. To learn more about IPS East County, follow us on our social media platforms: IPS East County Facebook, IPS East County X, and East County Youth Coalition Instagram. Our website is at IPSEast.org. Resources and services are available to assist with screening, treatment, and recovery for individuals with a substance use disorder via the Access & Crisis line, which is open year-round, 24/7 at (888) 724-7240 or dial 988.
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