The surge in alcohol consumption: Trends in a post-pandemic world

ALCOHOL has long been embedded in social traditions and recreational activities across the world. From parties and concerts to sports events and family gatherings, it’s often difficult to imagine social settings without alcohol.

Yet, the Covid-19 pandemic, which disrupted many aspects of life, also brought a troubling trend to light: alcohol consumption not only spiked during the pandemic but remains worryingly high years later.

A new study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine on November 12, 2023, led by Dr Brian Lee, a transplant hepatologist at the University of Southern California, reveals that alcohol use in the US has continued to rise since the pandemic.

These findings echo concerns globally, including in countries like South Africa, where binge drinking — a pattern of consuming excessive amounts of alcohol in one sitting — remains a significant public health challenge.

Alcohol use on the rise

Lee’s study analysed data from the National Health Interview Survey and compared drinking patterns between 2018, 2020 and 2022. The results paint a stark picture.

In 2018, 66.34% of Americans reported consuming alcohol in the past year. By 2020, this number increased to 69%, and by 2022, it rose slightly to 69.3%.

Heavy drinking (defined as binge drinking or excessive weekly consumption) also increased—from 5.1% in 2018 to 6.13% in 2020, and 6.3% in 2022.

Particularly troubling is the rise among women: 6.45% of women reported heavy drinking in 2022 compared to 6.1% of men, highlighting a shift in traditionally gendered drinking patterns.

These trends are not limited to the US; studies in other countries show similar patterns.

In South Africa, although fewer than one-third of the population drinks alcohol, those who do are more likely to engage in binge drinking, consuming large quantities in a single session.

For example, drinking a six-pack of beer in one sitting qualifies as binge drinking.

Lee expressed his concern, talking to CNN: “I was hopeful that we would see declines in alcohol use, but the reality is, we’ve seen a rise in patients with liver failure, a severe consequence of excessive alcohol use.”

The pandemic created a perfect storm for increased alcohol consumption:

Stress and isolation: Lockdowns, financial uncertainty, and the emotional toll of the pandemic pushed many people toward alcohol as a coping mechanism.

Increased accessibility: Alcohol delivery services and relaxed liquor laws during the pandemic made it easier than ever to obtain alcohol.

Cultural acceptance: Alcohol is deeply ingrained in many cultures as a way to relax or celebrate, making it socially acceptable — even when consumption becomes harmful.

Health implications

The rise in alcohol consumption is more than a statistical concern, it poses serious health risks.

Lee warns about the dangers of even moderate drinking: “If you’re drinking more than one drink per day as a woman, you can be at risk for having liver disease.”

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines heavy drinking as:

• For women: 4 or more drinks on any day or 8 or more drinks per week.
• For men: 5 or more drinks on any day or 15 or more drinks per week.

Excessive alcohol use is linked to a wide array of health problems, including:

• Liver disease, such as cirrhosis or liver failure.
• Cardiovascular issues, including high blood pressure and heart disease.
• Mental health disorders, like depression and anxiety.

Increased risk of cancers, particularly breast, liver and oesophagal cancers.

In South Africa, the social consequences are also significant. Alcohol misuse exacerbates gender-based violence, criminality, and family breakdowns.

Economically, it hits the poorest communities hardest, as limited resources are often diverted to alcohol rather than essential needs.

What can be done?

Public awareness campaigns: Governments and organisations need to launch targeted campaigns to educate people on the risks of excessive drinking. Highlighting the link between alcohol and health issues, such as liver disease and cancer, can help shift social attitudes.

Stricter alcohol regulations: Policies that limit alcohol advertising, increase taxes on alcoholic beverages, and restrict sales hours can help curb consumption. For example, South Africa implemented alcohol sales bans during the pandemic, which temporarily reduced alcohol-related hospital admissions.

Promote alternatives: Encourage the availability of non-alcoholic beverages at social events and normalise sober lifestyles. Social media campaigns, like the global “Sober October” or “Dry January” movements, can inspire people to reduce their alcohol intake.

Support for mental health: Since alcohol is often used as a coping mechanism, providing accessible mental health resources can help address the root causes of excessive drinking.

Individual accountability: On a personal level, individuals can track their drinking habits, set limits, and seek help if they struggle with alcohol misuse. Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or therapy can be invaluable.