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Baby boomers out drinking their kids

Australia’s baby boomers are out drinking their kids, the latest GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Health Index has found.

The Index found nearly 10% of Australians aged 55 to 64 had 20 or more standard drinks a week, compared to 8% of 18 to 24 year olds. 

The result goes against the common conception that young adults are binge drinkers, while older Australians are more responsible with alcohol.

GSK medical advisor Dr Eugene Goh, said the results were a wake up call for older Australians whose unhealthy drinking habits might be slipping under the radar. 

“After a lifetime of forming their drinking habits, older Australians may need to stop and reassess, as what we know about the affects of alcohol has changed significantly in the past 20 years” Dr Goh said.

Current Government guidelines state that men should drink no more than 20 standard alcoholic drinks and women no more than 10 standard alcoholic drinks a week.

“Most of us associate heavy drinking with young Australians, but it appears some older Australians are indulging in unhealthy drinking habits as well” Dr Goh said. 

“Older Australians need to watch their drinking and consult their GP if they are unsure how many standard drinks they can safely have in a week. 

“They also need to be aware of the example they set for the young generation” he said.

“Alcohol also interacts with a number of common medications, including blood pressure medications and anti-depressants, so we encourage people to speak to their GP or pharmacist about whether their medications interact with alcohol. 

“This will also ensure they get the full benefit of their treatment.”    

Visit:

www.gsk.com.au  

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