A British Liver Trust report, ‘Tackling alcohol misuse: Should abstinence be our preferred approach?‘, launched in February argues that people with alcohol problems must be offered effective support and treatment to meet their individual needs. The report suggests that it is vital that people who misuse alcohol are not treated by a one-size fits all abstinence approach; but, in order to be as successful as possible, healthcare professionals must work with patients to understand their preferences in setting goals to reduce their alcohol harm.
According to the report, the core focus of alcohol policy debates should be on preventing liver disease. This means that GPs, nurses and other health professionals should screen for alcohol misuse more widely, to ensure that those drinking at harmful levels are identified and offered appropriate support, advice and treatment.