Alcohol deaths: Time running out for Scottish Government, groups say 

Time is running out for the Scottish Government to reduce alcohol deaths, health groups say.

With a year until the next Scottish Parliament election, 70 organisations covering health, addiction and more have called on the SNP administration to "show leadership" and undertake targeted measures to save lives.

Ministers declared a public health emergency four years ago but deaths from alcohol have since reached a 15-year high.

Organisations including Alcohol Focus Scotland and the Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems (Shaap) say early detection and treatment of liver disease and other measures could reduce drink-related harms.

Groups including medical Royal Colleges say projects have shown this to be "highly effective and cost-effective" when used early. If treatment is delayed, the disease can be irreversible. 

Nurse-led alcohol care teams in hospitals, improved access to detox services and greater funding for recovery and treatment is also sought. 

Almost 1,230 people died from conditions caused by alcohol in 2023. The figure is the highest seen since 2008, with two-thirds of cases involving men. Glasgow and North Lanarkshire were the regions most affected.

Alcohol is said to cost the NHS £700m a year, with drink-related crime totalling an estimated £1bn.

Laura Mahon, acting chief executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland, said: "Time is running out for this government to demonstrate genuine results, so together with partners, we’ve provided a roadmap for delivery. Now we need to see clear leadership and investment.

"Earlier detection of liver damage is essential because of its life-saving potential. A number of these initiatives are already happening at a local level and could be scaled up and enable people with serious or potentially life-threatening alcohol problems to be identified sooner and supported more effectively, reducing their risk of experiencing further harm."

Shaap chair Dr Alastair MacGilchrist added: "Alcohol is linked to over 100 illnesses including cancer, heart disease and liver disease. Investment in treatment saves lives - for every £1 spent on treatment there is a £3 return. Alcohol care teams, for example, can lower the number of acute hospital admissions, readmissions, and deaths along with improving the quality of care for people with alcohol-related health problems. However, inconsistencies in approach mean not everyone has access to these life-saving services."

The Scottish Government was contacted for comment.