Reassessment of alcohol consumption in Germany – Which population groups are at increased risk of disease?

Abstract

Background: According to the new position statement of the German Nutrition Society, there is no level of alcohol consumption that is risk-free to health. One to two alcoholic drinks per week are associated with a low risk of negative health consequences, three to six with a moderate risk, and more than six with a high risk. Alcohol consumption in Germany was assessed according to these categories. Methods: The analyses are based on the survey German Health Update (GEDA 2019/2020-EHIS) conducted by the Robert Koch Institute with data from 22,708 adults. The frequency and amount of alcohol consumption were asked in a telephone interview. Results: 21.1 % of adults stated that they did not drink alcohol. 46.3 % had an alcohol consumption with a low risk of negative health consequences. 32.5 % of adults reported moderate or high-risk consumption, with significantly more men (44.3 %) than women (21.4 %) doing so. This consumption pattern was most prevalent among men aged 45 to 64 and 65 and over (almost one in two in both groups), as well as among women aged 45 to 64 (about one in four), and increased in both sexes in higher education groups. Conclusions: Almost one in three adults consume three or more alcoholic drinks per week, which is associated with a moderate to high risk of disease. Therefore, measures proven to reduce alcohol consumption, such as advertising bans, higher taxation and restrictions on availability, should be implemented.