EON

A study published recently by Duke University and lead researcher Dan Blazer indicates that binge drinking is a growing problem among older adults. Studies on bingeing — having 5 or more drinks in one sitting — tend to focus on adolescent and college age individuals. More recently, however, the problem seems to have identified itself in a much larger demographic.

The government recently polled roughly 11,000 Americans over the age of 50, finding that nearly a quarter of the males in that age group consumed more than 5 drinks in a sitting within a month of the survey. The numbers for females are lower than that of the men but still represent almost 10% of the group. It is especially dangerous to exhibit this kind of recreational binge drinking later in life as chronic health conditions worsen and the body has less ability to recover.

The American Journal of Psychiatry, while emphasizing the detrimental effects of binge drinking for older Americans, also recognized an alarming amount of polled individuals who are considered “problem drinkers”. This group — which represents someone who has two or more drinks per day — tallied at roughly 20% for men and 13% for the women polled. Each type of alcohol abuse carries an inherent danger of health problems. Elevated instances of raised blood pressure and accidental injury can be attributed to the behavior.

Research seems to suggest that binge drinking as a repeated behavior may be an indicator of other psychological issues or substance abuse tendencies. With this study coming to light, many physicians will be urged to consult with their patients on drinking habits and tendencies to overindulge so that the necessary medical and psychological measures can be taken to prevent further damage.