RCGP Calls for Action on Alcohol Abuse
30th July 2009
RCGP Chairman Professor Steve Field has
responded to the public affairs committee (PAC) report on alcohol
abuse today.
“We welcome this report and its
recommendations. We support the need for better correlation between
government agencies and for PCTs to have effective strategies in
place.
“GPs are not killjoys, but we recognise the
serious harm and health problems caused by alcohol abuse. As GPs we
see the damage to individuals and their families probably more than
any other group of healthcare professionals.
“Alcohol abuse is a hidden problem and it is
clear that many more people need treatment than are currently
receiving it. If you have concerns about how much you are drinking,
talk to your local GP. We are able to support and can help you keep
it to safe levels.
“It’s clear we have a cultural problem with
binge drinking, especially amongst young people. Peer pressure
plays a part, as does the impact of television and role models who
glamourise drinking.”
FURTHER INFORMATION
RCGP Press office – 020 7344 3136
Out of hours: 07885 958 632
press@rcgp.org.uk
NOTES TO EDITORS
The Royal College of General Practitioners is
a network of over 36,000 family doctors working to improve care for
patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standards
of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on
education, training, research and clinical standards.