The COVID-19 pandemic could have another significant ramification for public health in terms of increased alcohol consumption, according to a Triangle-based nonprofit research institute.
A study recently published in RTI International’s journal Addiction estimated that an increase in alcohol consumption over the course of a year during a pandemic has a significant impact on health outcomes and hospital costs.
The researchers’ estimates were calculated based on approximately 25.9 million current drinkers in the United States with a lifetime alcohol use disorder. Results were determined based on 10,000 simulated cases.
The researchers determined that a one-year increase in consumption by these individuals would result in the loss of 332,000 quality-adjusted lifespans over the next five years.
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They also estimated that there were an additional 295,000 alcohol-related hospitalizations from 28 alcohol-related conditions during the same period. Additional hospitalizations increase his hospital costs by $5.4 billion, with cirrhosis accounting for his $3 billion.
“Alcohol consumption places a significant burden on the health and economy of the United States,” said Carolina Barbosa, health economist at RTI and lead author of the study. “Unfortunately, the increase in consumption observed during the COVID-19 pandemic will only add to this burden.”
Barbosa said the findings “underscore the importance of monitoring alcohol consumption and its associated harms, and paying particular attention to minority groups who are disproportionately affected by these trends.” It emphasizes gender,” he said.
Researchers based their study on an individual-level simulation model of individuals with a history of alcohol use disorders.
Here is the simulation: One scenario with no change in consumption. The increase in consumption due to the pandemic will last for a year. And the final scenario where increased consumption continues for his five years.
Health and cost impacts were more pronounced in the 51+, female, and non-Hispanic black age groups.
A scenario simulating a five-year sustained increase in consumption had an even greater impact.
Laura Beach, Professor of Trauma Surgery at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, said the RTI study found that “a significant number of Americans would have had a much more frequent alternative drink to escape the bitter affliction of this COVID.” , provides a clear picture of the expected health hazards of the 19 pandemic.”
“Alcohol sales have increased dramatically as the lockdown has dragged on. You’ve seen them there.”
A key takeaway from the study, Veach said, is that “as Barbosa and her co-authors better understand the costs of unsafe drinking, they highlight the critical opportunity for early intervention in this pandemic.” is to provide an important tool for improving related warnings.
Current guidelines recommend no more than one standard drink for women and two standard drinks for men per day, according to Veach.
No amount of alcohol is recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, persons with alcohol use disorders or other use disorders, persons under the age of 21, or persons taking medical conditions or medications that contraindicate alcohol. not.
Danielle Harper, a therapist at Novant Health Psychiatry, said, “We haven’t seen an increase in alcohol consumption, but since working in the emergency department, there are evaluations that need to be completed for anyone seeking an alcohol detox. I’ve noticed that this happens frequently.”
“Some have been sober for years but have returned to consuming alcohol due to unemployment, lack of socialization, and inability to attend AA meetings in person.”
“Continued use of alcohol may increase depression and anxiety, and may increase suicidal ideation associated with depression,” warns Harper.
“If left untreated, symptoms of depression and anxiety can become chronic and can affect all areas of life – socially, professionally, and interpersonally.
“Usually, substance use, in this case alcohol use, can lead to social isolation and loss of support from loved ones and friends, which can affect someone’s mental health in the long run. may give.”
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