In Team Training

Follow this topic

Bookmark

Record learning outcomes

Pharmacy technician Lucy is talking to her pharmacist Parveen about staying alcohol-free during January.

“After the excesses of Christmas, it has been quite nice doing the Dryathlon this month,” says Lucy. “I’ve lost a bit of weight, saved some money and just generally feel better in myself. But the best thing is going to be that first weekend in February when I’m going to let rip and have a really good night out in town with my friends.” “Are you sure that’s a good idea Lucy?” asks Parveen, a little concerned...

Answer

Dryathlon and Dry January are campaigns run by the charities Cancer Research UK and Alcohol Concern respectively to raise money and promote awareness of the problem of alcohol misuse.

While there is no doubting that temporary abstinence from alcohol has many benefits for those who take part – in financial terms as well as healthwise – it can inadvertently lead to hazardous behaviour. Those who opt to celebrate the successful passing of the month may end up binge drinking (generally defined as drinking eight units of alcohol in a day for men, and six units in a day for women).

The bigger picture

While the alcohol misuse message is being promoted widely it is often misunderstood, with many opting to abstain at certain times – during the week, for example, or for the first month of the year – then indulge at others. This can lead to people drinking Binge drinking more than their daily unit guidelines in a single session, often at a rapid rate and with the intention of getting drunk.

Evidence points towards binge drinking being significantly worse for health than drinking small quantities on a frequent basis. Cancer of the mouth, neck, throat and breast, liver cirrhosis, hypertension and cardiac arrhythmias are some of the conditions that those who regularly exceed the recommended unit guidelines are at higher risk of developing.

While regular alcohol-free days are a good idea to avoid dependence developing, they should not be used as an excuse for overdoing it on other occasions.

Extend your learning

• Do you think you could spot alcohol dependence? Read the relevant section at the NHS Choices website to refresh your knowledge.
• Leaflets can be a good way to initiate a conversation with patients you think may have issues with alcohol. Have a look at the resources published by Drinkaware and consider printing some for use in your pharmacy.
• NICE has published some guidance on alcohol use disorders. A good starting point to update your understanding are: public health guidance 24, clinical guidance 100 and quality standard 11.