With 15 deaths every month, alcohol liver disease continues to be a top killer in the country. As per the Annual Health Bulletin 2017, from 140 deaths in 2012, the number increased to 190 in 2016.
Consuming and offering alcohol are deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture and tradition. Excessive use of alcohol results in serious health problems, affects interpersonal relationships, increases violence, accidents, and road crashes. RENEW reports indicate that seventy percent of domestic violence were committed under the influence of alcohol. Chithuen Phendey Association , a non-profit organisation, records an increase in admissions for alcohol dependence.
Dawa Penjor, a programme officer with the Association, said drugs and alcohol situation, and its related problems have reached an alarming stage. “And there is no reason for us to believe that this problem will be solved or contained in the near future if we do not take the collective action now.
“He added every year the alcohol liver disease is increasing. “Economically government is spending a huge amount in alcohol liver treatment. And we are losing a lot of people.”
Due to an increasing trend in alcohol deaths, the Health Ministry in 2016 collaborated with relevant agencies started implementing the National Policy and Strategic Framework to reduce harmful use of alcohol.
Mindu Dorji, Officiating Chief Programme Officer, of Health Ministry said under this policy, over 70 per cent of the gewogs have now initiated community expansion programmes to reduce harmful use of alcohol. “Very recently I received a report from the gewog level of this review meeting. But I do not know how effective it will be.” he added. “It will be very early to have the results especially in the areas of liver disease. It is not an immediate thing that you start this year and next year the liver disease will be reduced because this is an impact or it is already the harm that has been done by drinking for the last 15-20 years.”
It is estimated that the per capita alcohol consumption among Bhutanese is 8.47 litres, which is higher than the global consumption of 6.2 litres. In 2016, Nu 27m was spent in treating alcohol patients.
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