Those in their 40s have highest rate of drug and alcohol abuse

A report revealed that people in their 40’s have the worst drinking and drug problems.

09:45 10 December 2013

An analysis conducted by Dr Foster revealed that middle-age people or those who are in their 40s have worst drinking and drug problems when compared to other age groups.

Based on the study which is published in the group’s annual hospital guide, there were more than 120,000 people admitted in England for the past three years. This means that one in 10 emergency admission is related to drug and alcohol abuse. Dr Foster noticed that the greatest problems were observed among the poorest.

Roger Taylor, co-founder of Dr Foster, said: "The bulk of the problem is in this age group. It seems they are the ones that have used drinks and drugs more than previous generations and it is now catching up with them in middle age."

Lord Adebowale, chief executive of Turning Point, a charity that works with people with addiction problems, said: "These figures remind us that drug and alcohol misuse is a major health challenge and that binge drinking does not only affect younger people."

"Early intervention is critical if we are to stop intergenerational problems escalating."