Over-45s 'drink more regularly'

A charity has warned that people aged over 45 who drink on a daily basis are increasing their chances of serious illness following the release of official figures.

Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that over a tenth (13%) of people who are 45 and older have a drink virtually every day. That compares with 4% of those who are younger.

The statistics reveal that 22% of men who are at least 65 consume alcohol practically daily, while only 3% of 16 to 24-year-old males gave the same answer.

Only 1% of women aged 16-24 said they drink almost daily, but that figure rises to 12% for those aged 65 and over.

Eric Appleby, chief executive of Alcohol Concern, said the figures 'expose the hidden truth about alcohol and Middle England', warning that the problem of drinking too frequently was worse among 'professional or managerial households'.

'Whilst drinking is decreasing amongst younger age groups, the middle-aged middle classes are taking unnoticed risks with their health, increasing their likelihood of suffering illnesses such as liver disease, stroke and cancer,' Mr Appleby said.

In the recent Age UK publication 'Improving Later Life', Dr Alan Maryon-Davis advises 'Alcohol is fine in moderation, but don't let it get the upper hand. Keep within the recommended limits, including at least two alcohol-free days a week.'

Copyright Press Association 2012