RCN: Better regulation needed in the drinks industry
Published: 21 May 2009
The RCN says that self regulation by the drinks industry is not working and is calling for effective regulation to ensure that retailers do not engage in unscrupulous practises which encourage customers to drink to excess.
The comments come following the publication of a new NHS Information Centre report which indicates that a quarter of all adults in England are hazardous drinkers.
RCN Executive Director for Nursing and Service Delivery, Janet Davies says:
"This report confirms the experience of frontline nurses up and down the country. People are becoming more aware of the damage alcohol can do, yet this country's drink problem is getting worse and worse.
More people attending hospital for alcohol related reasons means more pressure on frontline health services."
The RCN is also calling for public health campaigns to educate the public about the dangers of binge drinking.