Do Argentinians drink a lot of alcohol?

Argentina is part of the region of the Americas, where alcohol consumption is high compared to other world regions. In a recent study published in BMC Public Health, researchers examined alcohol consumption patterns in Argentina to determine if Argentinians drink a lot of alcohol.

The study found that alcohol consumption in Argentina is relatively high compared to other countries in the Americas. The prevalence of heavy episodic drinking (HED) was found to be 17.9% among Argentinians, which is higher than the average prevalence in the Americas (12.9%). The study also found that 10.4% of Argentinians engaged in regular heavy drinking, which is also higher than the regional average of 6.7%.

It is important to note that the study did not explore the reasons behind the high levels of alcohol consumption in Argentina. However, there are a few possible explanations for this trend. One factor could be the cultural acceptance of alcohol in Argentina, where it is often consumed during social gatherings and celebrations.

Additionally, the availability and affordability of alcohol in Argentina may contribute to higher levels of consumption. Alcohol is widely available in Argentina and is relatively inexpensive compared to other countries. This easy access to alcohol may make it more likely for people to drink alcohol regularly.

It is also worth noting that alcohol consumption in Argentina is associated with a number of negative health outcomes. The study found that heavy episodic drinking was associated with an increased risk of injuries and alcohol use disorders. Regular heavy drinking was also linked to a higher risk of liver cirrhosis and cardiovascular disease.

Overall, the study's findings suggest that alcohol consumption in Argentina is relatively high compared to other countries in the Americas. The reasons behind this trend are not fully understood, but factors such as cultural norms, availability, and affordability of alcohol may play a role. It is important for public health efforts in Argentina to address high levels of alcohol consumption and the associated health risks.