As alcohol consumption among women rises nationwide, Florida health experts are voicing concern about the unique risks women face, from increased susceptibility to organ damage to higher rates of alcohol use disorder which can develop from casual drinking.
From college campuses to book clubs, alcohol has become deeply woven into social routines, even as new research shows women suffer greater negative consequences from drinking than men.
Health risks with alcohol use
Melanie Brown-Woofter, president and CEO of the Florida Behavioral Health Association, said the trend is growing beyond college.
“We’re seeing an increase in binge drinking among women that are college age, as well as seeing that continue early in their careers,” Brown-Woofter reported. “Remember, alcohol is a substance that is well liked and there’s very little stigma around it. ”
Federal health agencies warn regular alcohol use increases breast cancer risk. Brown-Woofter noted for anyone concerned about consumption, the Florida Behavioral Health Association offers more than 70 treatment providers statewide, including 22 specialized pregnancy programs. Health experts recommend women limit their alcohol intake to one drink daily, or fewer.
The National Institutes of Health estimate up to 12 million girls and women have alcohol use disorder.
Dr. Lisa Saul, chief medical officer for women’s health at UnitedHealthcare, said she understands the temptation and challenge women face avoiding drinking, amid societal pressures and targeted marketing.
“Terminology like, it’s ‘wine o’clock,’ ‘mommy juice,’ those sorts of things have really normalized the consumption of alcohol in ways that we didn’t really see before,” Saul observed.
Experts stressed workplace support can be crucial, encouraging people to use employee assistance programs if they’re available and calling on more employers to offer such resources.