CDC report: More men die from binge drinking

More than 2,200 people die of alcohol poising in the U.S. each year, according to the Center for Disease Control’s latest Vital Signs report. 

Consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period of time can shutdown critical areas of the brain that control breathing, heart rate and body temperature. The CDC quantifies binge drinking as drinking five or more drinks on one occasion for men and four or more drinks during one occasion for women.

Though alcohol poisoning deaths affect people of all ages, the CDC said its most common among middle-aged adults and men.

Statistics showed an average of 6 alcohol-poisoning deaths every day. Three out of every 4 alcohol-poisoning deaths were reported to have involved adults ages 35-64.

The CDC said states could prevent alcohol-poisoning deaths by creating stronger alcohol policies and supporting programs that decrease binge drinking.

“Alcohol poisoning deaths are a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers of drinking too much alcohol, which is a leading cause of preventable deaths in the U.S.” said CDC Principal Deputy Director Ileana Arias.

“We need to implement effective programs and policies to prevent binge drinking and the many health and social harms that are related to it, including deaths from alcohol poisoning.”

Treatment is now a core benefit for millions of Americans. According to the Office of National Drug Control Policy, the Affordable Care Act, otherwise known as ObamaCare, includes substance use disorders as one of the 10 elements of essential health benefits. 

Under the law, all health insurance sold on exchanges or provided by Medicaid had to include services for substance use disorders starting in 2014. 

Though underage binge drinking has decreased, the Distilled Spirits Council said the CDC’s report reinforces the important of responsible drinking among adults. 

“As previous CDC research has shown, moderate alcohol consumption can be part of a healthy adult lifestyle, but moderation is the key,” said Lisa Hawkins, the council’s Vice President Lisa Hawkins. 

“The spirits industry urges adults to follow the U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommendations for alcohol consumption including knowing the definitions of moderate drinking and standard drinks.”