Binge drinking rife among Coast teens

14.02.2007

By REBECCA MARSHALL and AAP DISTURBING new research has shed light on the problem of youth binge drinking, a habit that is damaging the health of young people on the Sunshine Coast.

A survey of 500 men and women across Australia found that one third are binge drinkers and nearly one in four had consumed enough alcohol to pass out on at least five occasions.

The research, commissioned by the Alcohol Education & Rehabilitation Foundation, found one in three people aged between 18 and 24 who typically drank 10 or more drinks did not see themselves as binge drinkers.

Forty-four percent had drunk so much they passed out on at least one occasion, 22% on five or more occasions and 4% in excess of 20 times.

The survey showed that binge drinkers tended to cling together as well.

They were more likely to befriend, date and consider marrying other excessive drinkers.

According to National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines, men who drink 11 or more drinks in one sitting are considered to be binge drinking, while seven drinks puts women in the danger zone.

Queensland Ambulance Service Caloundra group co-ordinator Barry Wood said binge drinking was an issue for Coast youngsters.

“The only time we get binge drinking is with parties and at times like New Year’s Eve,” he said.

“We don’t see a lot of it in terms of general practice every day or every other week; it’s mainly when the young ones have parties or there is a special occasion.

“And that is because of peer pressure, they are all going out for a good night.

“Some will drink and some will tag along doing the same thing. Some of them are sensible and they will stay sober to protect their friends.

“It’s concerning to everybody. No one likes to go out to the youngsters and find them in that state. But it is a fact of life, it does happen and we just respond as we’re called.

“We look after them in terms of treatment and then if they need care in hospital, we will take them there.”

Mr Wood urged young people and their parents to be vigilant about the issue.

“Education in schools and different forums is the key,” he said.

“At those special celebrations, like New Year’s Eve at Mooloolaba, there are agencies like the Street Angels around on the night street to ensure people are safe.

“There should be responsible adults at private parties and the kids should make sure they don’t advertise on the internet.”

The AER study also revealed binge drinkers were more likely to have a one night stand when they were drunk.

At the same time, 59% of respondents said they felt alcohol affected their sex life in a negative way.