About 2 billion people worldwide consume alcoholic drinks. Moderate consumption of alcohol does not normally pose health problems, but excessive consumption can have immediate and long term consequences on health and social life.1

Over 76 million people are currently affected by alcohol use disorders, such as alcohol dependence and abuse. Depending on the amount of alcohol consumed and the pattern of drinking, alcohol consumption can lead to drunkenness and alcohol dependence. It can result in disablement or death from accidents or contribute to depression and suicide. Moreover, it can cause chronic illnesses such as cancer and liver disease in those who drink heavily for many years.1

Alcohol causes 1.8 million deaths a year, which represents 3.2% of all deaths worldwide.1
Unintentional injuries account for about a third of the deaths from alcohol.1
Alcohol is the third most common cause of death in developed countries. In the limited number of developing countries where overall mortality is low, alcohol is the leading cause of illness and disease.1