Drinkers urged to ‘Count 14’ to stay within safe alcohol limits

NHS Tayside is encouraging people to “Count 14”, as research shows drinkers remain largely unsure of how many drinks make up the recommended weekly alcohol unit guideline of 14.

People who have looked to reduce their alcohol intake in January are being urged to Count 14 in February, and beyond, to keep the risks from alcohol low.

Only 15% of beer, lager and cider drinkers in Scotland were able to correctly identify six pints equals 14 units, with 16% of wine drinkers knowing 14 units equated to six medium glasses of wine.

Almost a quarter (24%) of those who drink spirits regularly knew seven double measures added up to the recommended maximum unit guideline.

The Scottish Government’s Count 14 campaign, backed by NHS Tayside, aims to help people understand how their weekly drinking adds up.

Dr Emma Fletcher, consultant in public health medicine, NHS Tayside, said: “Drinking alcohol, particularly more than 14 units a week, increases the risk of developing serious health conditions including heart disease and cancer.

“The Count 14 campaign is a really useful way of increasing awareness of the current guidelines around alcohol intake and promoting a more considered approach to drinking alcohol.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Catherine Calderwood said: “The alcohol guidelines are based on the clear evidence that as alcohol use increases, so does the risk of a range of health harms.

For further information on the guidelines visit count14.scot