Hospitals see big rise in underage drinkers
THE number of 15 to 18-year-olds treated in hospital following drinking sessions has risen by a third in the last five years.
Figures have shown that there were 229 people of that age admitted to hospital for excess alcohol consumption last year, compared to 117 in 2004.
The statistics were released by the Scottish Government following a parliamentary question by Lothians MSP Gavin Brown.
The Conservative said: "The rise in figures for this age group is very worrying indeed.
"We must increase our efforts in promoting alcohol awareness education in our schools while at the same time cracking down on off-licences that sell alcohol to those under 18."
Earlier this year, the Evening News revealed how 100 people a month are treated for alcohol poisoning in the Lothians.
The data showed that last year there were also 31 children under the age of 15 admitted to hospital after heavy drinking.
A total of 247 people aged 19-21 and 3786 adults over the age of 22 were also admitted.
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Sunday 27 May 2012
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