England sees a ‘catastrophic rise’ in alcohol deaths

Public health experts are calling for a stronger, comprehensive government intervention to tackle the escalating levels of alcohol-related harm in England, as new data reveals a significant rise in alcohol deaths. Official figures indicate a “catastrophic rise” in alcohol-related deaths, with 8,274 people dying in 2023 alone—a 42% increase since 2019. Official figures indicate a “catastrophic rise” in deaths caused solely by alcohol, with 8,274 people dying in 2023 alone—a 42 per cent increase since 2019. The North East recorded the highest mortality rates, more than double those in London. The Alcohol Health Alliance (AHA), which represents 60 organisations working to reduce alcohol-related harm, has warned that this number represents only the tip of the iceberg as it reflects deaths wholly attributable to alcohol. When cases where alcohol was a contributing factor are considered, the death toll could triple the current estimates, they said.