Alcohol linked to one in three injury deaths in Europe, says WHO

Alcohol consumption is a leading cause of injury and violent death in Europe, accounting for one in three such fatalities, according to a new report from the World Health Organization (WHO). The findings highlight a major public health threat, particularly during holiday periods when drinking typically increases.

Scale of the Mortality Crisis

Based on 2019 data, the WHO European Region, which has the highest alcohol consumption levels globally, recorded nearly 145,000 injury-related deaths attributable to alcohol. These deaths include those from self-harm, road traffic injuries, and falls. Overall, alcohol use is estimated to cause 800,000 deaths annually in the region, representing about one in every 11 deaths. "No other psychoactive substance contributes so heavily to both unintentional and intentional injuries," the agency stated.

Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Groups

The report underscores a strong link between alcohol and violence, with over 40% of interpersonal violence deaths and more than one-third of self-harm deaths in 2019 being alcohol-attributable. Women and children are disproportionately affected, often through intimate partner violence. Adolescents and young adults are also at severe risk, with heavy episodic drinking being a key factor behind road injuries, drowning, falls, and self-harm in these age groups.

Regional Inequalities and Policy Call

Sharp inequalities persist across the continent. Eastern European countries experience the highest alcohol-related injury death rates, where alcohol is linked to more than half of all injury deaths in some nations. This contrasts with many western and southern states, where the figure is below 20%. In response, WHO is urging governments to strengthen alcohol control policies. Recommended measures include higher taxes, stricter marketing bans, tougher drink-driving enforcement, and early screening in healthcare settings, which the organization says could prevent tens of thousands of premature deaths yearly. Public health strategies in nations like Türkiye, which regulate alcohol sales and advertising, align with this comprehensive approach to reducing harm.