There is clear evidence that as alcohol use increases so does the risk of a range of physical and mental health harms.
The World Health Organisation identifies alcohol as the third highest risk factor for ill health in developed countries, behind only tobacco and high blood pressure.
Alcohol misuse has been shown to damage the brain and nervous system, affect the immune system, harm bones, skin and muscles, cause fertility problems and impair fetal development.
In the short term, it can result in accidental injury or alcohol poisoning.
In the long term, it can lead to a range of alcohol related conditions, including cancer, liver cirrhosis and high blood pressure, and even to death.
Taken together this represents a significant risk to health. Information on the impact of alcohol on health is well documented.
Find out more on the alcohol campaign site.