UK Alcohol Deaths Hit Record High in 2022

The number of alcohol-specific deaths surged by over 30% compared to pre-pandemic levels, reflecting changes in drinking habits during COVID-19.

In 2022, the UK recorded 10,048 alcohol-specific deaths, marking the highest number since records began.
Deaths from alcohol rose sharply post-pandemic, continuing a trend from 2021, with figures showing a 32.8% increase from 2019.
Men are disproportionately affected, with rates of alcohol-specific deaths approximately double those of women.
Scotland and Northern Ireland reported the highest per capita alcohol-specific death rates in the UK.
Experts and advocacy groups call for stringent preventive measures, including better alcohol regulation and minimum pricing to combat the crisis.