WHEN the weather gets warmer most of us like to take the opportunity to get out and about and socialise with our friends and family.

This can quite often include a few alcoholic drinks and it can be very easy to lose track of the amount you’re drinking, which can lead to some very serious problems.

Drinking in excess can have a negative impact on your health and can increase the chances of developing serious conditions such as liver problems, high blood pressure, certain cancers or a heart attack.

The effects of alcohol on your health will depend on the amount you drink. The more you drink the greater the risk and we recommend that men should not regularly drink more than 3-4 units of alcohol a day and 2-3 units a day for women.

Locally, the CCG is working with Worcestershire County Council, Malvern Hills District Council and Swanswell on a campaign in Malvern to warn people of the dangers of drinking too much alcohol.

The campaign focusses on the Pickersleigh area, where statistics show us there has been a high level of alcohol related admissions to hospital and an increased number of people with long-term health conditions due to alcohol.

The campaign is due to launch later this week, so keep an eye out for more information on this.

It’s important to remember that drinking in excess not only has an effect on your life by having an impact on your health and wellbeing, but also on the lives of the people around you and can potentially lead to families or relationships breaking-up or violence related issues.

If you’re worried about the amount of alcohol that you, a family member, or a friend are drinking then now is the time to act.
There’s a lot of help and support available both online, on websites such as NHS Choices (nhs.uk/Livewell/alcohol/Pages/Alcoholsupport.aspx) or via direct support from organisations like Swanswell, who you can call confidentially on 0300 303 8200.

DR CARL ELLSON Chief Clinical lead, NHS South Worcestershire CCG