Despite having one of the highest rates of alcohol consumption in the world, Brits are the least inclined to cut down their intake, new research reveals.
The survey, by Bupa, of over 13,000 people across 12 countries, found that Britons are over a third more likely to drink alcohol than the national average and more than twice as likely to drink every day.
But despite this, 38% have no intention of changing their drinking habits. In contrast, other nations who drank less said they would like to try to cut down.
Dr Layla McCay, assistant medical director of Bupa said: "This is a worrying observation which implies that Brits are particularly resistant to change when it comes to drinking habits. Whether that is due to a lack of awareness about the effects that alcohol can have - or whether we are simply in denial - there is clearly more work to be done to raise awareness of the associated risks and the real impact it can have on lives."
Chief Executive of Drinkaware, Chris Sorek, said, "There is always an excuse to drink but there are plenty of reasons to cut down too. It can be easy to drink more than you intended, by not being aware of the units in your favourite drink or pouring large measures at home."
He went on to point out the potential consequences associated with such complacency: "Regularly drinking over the daily guidelines can lead to more serious health harms including alcohol-related liver disease, which has no warning signs. Alcohol is also the second biggest risk factor for cancer after smoking - responsible for cancer of the breast, liver, bowel and mouth."
Bupa's top 5 tips for responsible drinking:
- Have something to eat before you drink, and if possible, while you're drinking
- Start with low-alcohol or alcohol-free drinks, or alternate these with alcoholic drinks
- Pace yourself - enjoy your drink slowly
- Keep track of how much you're drinking
- Don't drink alcohol every day of the week - have at least one or two alcohol-free days
Find out the truth about your weekly intake with this online drinks calculator.