How many people are drinking to harmful levels?
England
In 2021, 67% of adults (aged 18+) were categorised as low risk.
19% of adults were drinking at increased or high risk levels.
26% of males were drinking at increased or high risk levels compared to 12% of females.
Adults aged between 45 and 64 were the most likely to be drinking above the low risk drinking guidelines whereas adults aged between 18 and 24 were the least likely (22% vs 12%).
Wales
In 2021, 72% of adults (aged 18+) were categorised as low risk.
16% of adults were drinking at increased or high risk levels.
23% of males were drinking at increased or high risk levels compared to 10% of females.
Adults aged between 18 and 24 were the most likely to be drinking above the low risk drinking guidelines whereas adults aged 76 and over were the least likely (23% vs 7%).
Scotland
In 2021, 68% of adults (aged 18+) were categorised as low risk.
18% of adults were drinking at increased or high risk levels.
24% of males were drinking at increased or high risk levels compared to 12% of females.
Adults aged between 18 and 24 were the most likely to be drinking above the low risk drinking guidelines whereas adults aged 76 and over were the least likely (22% vs 9%).
Northern Ireland
In 2021, 69% of adults (aged 18+) were categorised as low risk.
18% of adults were drinking at increased or high risk levels.
22% of males were drinking at increased or high risk levels compared to 14% of females.
Adults aged between 55 and 64 were the most likely to be drinking above the low risk drinking guidelines whereas adults aged 76 and over were the least likely (23% vs 12%).
SOURCE: DRINKAWARE