Goa is facing an alarming public health crisis as chronic liver disease admissions continue to surge at the Goa Medical College (GMC). Reports indicate that the hospital receives between 140-160 new cases of chronic liver disease every month, with over 300 annual deaths attributed to liver cirrhosis alone. The data highlights a troubling trend of increased alcohol consumption, especially among younger individuals.
Alcoholism Among Goa's Youth
Medical experts and social workers have raised concerns over the decreasing age of alcohol consumption initiation. A growing number of individuals aged between 12 and 14 years are turning to alcohol, leading to early-onset liver diseases. According to Dr. Rajesh Patil, GMC's medical superintendent, this shift is reflective of broader societal changes where alcohol consumption is becoming more normalised among teenagers. This early exposure significantly increases the risk of developing chronic illnesses later in life.
Two to three decades ago, we saw patients in their forties or fifties with liver cirrhosis, but we now have them in their twenties.Dr. Rajesh Patil, GMC Medical Superintendent
A National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) study revealed that close to 30% of Indian adolescents have tried alcohol, with Goa ranking among the highest in alcohol consumption. [2] The World Health Organization (WHO) also lists excessive drinking as a major cause of liver disease globally, with South Asia recording a high rise in alcohol dependence. [3]
The Wider Impact of Alcohol-Related Incidents
The impact of alcohol extends beyond chronic liver disease. Out of the 300 deaths recorded at GMC every month, around 30% are linked to alcohol-related causes, including drunk driving, cancer, strokes, and kidney failure.[1] Furthermore, studies suggest that one-third of all suicides in India occur under the influence of alcohol, while two-thirds of domestic violence cases and 40% of job absenteeism are also alcohol-related.[1] Astoundingly, 80% of alcohol-related medical emergencies presented in government hospitals have a direct link to alcohol use.
Research by the Indian Journal of Psychiatry states that alcohol-related incidents cost the Indian economy nearly 1.5% of its GDP annually, highlighting the broader socio-economic impact of alcohol misuse.[4] The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) also reported that alcohol consumption played a role in approximately 25% of traffic-related fatalities in India in 2022. [1]
The Need for Preventive Measures
Experts argue that the current approach, which focuses more on treatment rather than prevention, needs to be reevaluated. They emphasize that alcoholism treatment is a continuous process, and relapses are common. Thus, a more proactive approach involving preventive education is necessary to curb this growing menace. They stress the importance of evidence-based interventions in schools, stating that since students represent the future drinking population, early awareness programs can help mitigate the problem.
A Multi-Faceted Solution
Efforts to combat alcoholism must be synchronised across different sectors of society. Schools should implement awareness programs that highlight the long-term effects of alcohol abuse. The medical community must also be actively involved in educating patients about the dangers of excessive drinking. Furthermore, government policies should be strengthened to regulate alcohol accessibility and impose stricter penalties on drunk driving and related offences.
The mounting load of alcohol-related health conditions in Goa is a wake-up call. Unchecked, it will not just strain healthcare systems but also bring about a slide in public safety and health. Increasing awareness, putting preventive measures in place, and promoting rehabilitation will be critical to solving the crisis.
References
"Traffic Accidents and Alcohol Influence in India 2022." National Crime Records Bureau, https://ncrb.gov.in/traffic-accidents-and-alcohol-influence-2022
"Alcohol Use Among Adolescents in India: A Study by NIMHANS." National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, https://nimhans.ac.in/alcohol-use-among-adolescents-in-india
"Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health 2022." World Health Organization, https://www.who.int/publications-detail/global-status-report-on-alcohol-2022
"Economic Costs of Alcohol Consumption in India." Indian Journal of Psychiatry, https://www.indianjpsychiatry.org/article.asp?issn=0019-5545;year=2022;volume=64;issue=2;spage=103;epage=110
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Pragati Sakhuja/MSM)