Startling statistics released by the Scottish Government today show that alcohol misuse is costing Scotland £2.25b a year - more than double previous estimates.

The report for 2006/07 reveal the annual cost of alcohol misuse to business, the NHS, social services, police and courts, and cautions that the staggering £2.25 figure could be a significant underestimate. 

The cost borne by the NHS is estimated at £405m, whilst social work services accounts for £170m, criminal justice and the fire service for £385m.  An estimated £820m is attributed to wider economic costs and £470m to social costs. 

Alcohol is having a major impact on productivity according to the figures, with hangovers costing Scottish businesses up to £400m.  The health service is also being hit hard by the social problem.  Use of hospital beds to treat drinkers could be costing the NHS over £150m, the report says, while alcohol misuse is costing A&E services another £3.2m.

Commenting on the figures, Public Health Minister Shona Robison said:

"These shocking figures showing the scale of Scotland's drink problem are truly sobering.

"It's clear that the cost to Scotland from alcohol misuse cuts across services, including the NHS, the police, courts and social services - and also has a huge knock-on effect on our economy.

"These figures are a reminder that Scotland's alcohol problem is one of the biggest challenges we face, and tackling it must be one of our top priorities.

"That's why, over the next three years, we will invest over £120m to help prevent alcohol misuse, and provide support and treatment to those who need it."