Health authorities in Northern Ireland are calling on the public to rethink their drinking habits as a new awareness campaign begins, with data showing 397 people died from alcohol-specific causes in 2024. Men accounted for almost 65 per cent of those deaths, according to the Public Health Agency.

Northern Ireland Alcohol Awareness Week runs from 15 to 21 June, organised by the PHA in collaboration with the region's five Drug and Alcohol Connections Services. The week adopts the theme ‘better choices’ and aims to increase understanding of alcohol-related harm.

Officials are particularly concerned about drinking at home, noting that 46 per cent of drinkers consume most of their alcohol there. Free-pouring at home often results in larger measures than those served in bars or restaurants.

The PHA's regional lead for drugs and alcohol, Stephanie Hanlon, warned that consuming alcohol above recommended limits increases the risk of serious illnesses including heart attack, stroke and certain cancers. She said many individuals may not realise they exceed the Chief Medical Officers' guidelines.

Those guidelines advise no more than 14 units of alcohol per week, spread over three or more days with several alcohol-free days. Hanlon added that alcohol is a powerful drug that can damage relationships and impair judgment, but that small changes to drinking habits can reduce health risks.

During the campaign, Connections Services will run activities in community settings such as shopping centres, supermarkets, leisure facilities and GP practices. Separately, the ‘Know Your Units’ campaign is continuing in community pharmacies through June and July as part of the Living Well programme.

Community pharmacist Niall O'Brien said understanding alcohol units helps people make informed choices. He encouraged anyone with concerns about their drinking to speak to a pharmacist or GP, adding that pharmacy teams can provide advice and signpost to support services.