THE NUMBER of people being taken to hospital for alcohol-related conditions has hit a decade high.

Figures released last week by Public Health England show that, in 2016/17, 1,576 people in Swindon were hospitalised over a health problem related to alcohol.

In four years, the numbers have jumped by over a quarter – well above the national average. 

In Swindon, 766 hospital admissions for alcohol-related conditions were recorded in 2016/17 per 100,000 total hospital admissions. Across the south west, the rate is 650 per 100,000 – while in England it is lower again at 636 per 100,000.

The government figures also show that: 

  • Swindon has a far higher number of women left seeking hospital treatment for alcohol-related problems elsewhere. The town’s hospital admission rate is 135 per cent higher than the national average.
  • The number of women ending up in hospital with alcohol-linked conditions is also on the rise. 456 hospital admissions were recorded in 2008/9 – compared to 674 last year.
  • However, men are still more likely to be admitted to hospital, with a rate in Swindon of 902 admissions per 100,000.

Rosanna O’Connor, Public Health England’s director of drugs, alcohol and tobacco, said: “The rise in alcohol-related hospital admissions is a cause for concern. We support national and local partners to encourage people to drink at levels that reduce their risk of harm.

“This includes creating tools such as the ‘One You Days Off’ app to help people cut down on alcohol, save money and feel healthier. 

“We are also working with the NHS to deliver programmes which incentivise GPs and hospitals to provide advice to patients on how they can reduce their risk from alcohol, and, of course, the UK Chief Medical Officers' guidelines also help adults make informed decisions about their drinking.”