A recent report shows that 6,000 adults in North Tyneside are flagged for alcohol misuse, highlighting a growing concern in the community.
North Tyneside: Recent health figures show a worrying trend. About 6,000 adults in the area are recognized as problem drinkers by their GPs. This is especially true in poorer neighborhoods.
The stats reveal that 3.3% of registered adults have an “alcohol misuse flag.” Men are more affected, with rates at 4.2% compared to 2.5% for women. The highest rates are among those aged 50-69 and in Wallsend.
Alcohol-related hospital admissions in North Tyneside are above the national average. In 2022/23, the area had the second highest admissions in the region and fourth in the country.
The report highlights that people in the North East face more alcohol-related harm than other regions. This includes higher rates of dependence, hospital visits, and even deaths linked to alcohol.
Particularly concerning are the rates of mental and behavioral disorders due to alcohol use, along with cardiovascular issues and liver disease. Alcohol-related problems cost North Tyneside around £99 million each year.
About 1.5-1.6% of locals are considered dependent on alcohol. However, not all hospital admissions are from this group. By the end of 2023/24, over 600 people were in structured treatment programs, which is an increase from last year.
Good news is that all new referrals to alcohol treatment are waiting less than three weeks. The council is also working on plans to help people detox safely at home.
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