Alcohol Awareness Month is a time to reflect

SANTA FE – Alcohol-related deaths in New Mexico dropped 23 percent between 2021 and 2024, the New Mexico Department of Health announced Tuesday as the state marks Alcohol Awareness Month this April.

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) is highlighting the progress while urging residents to stay informed about alcohol's health risks — including its link to at least seven types of cancer — and to take advantage of free screening resources available this month.

Alcohol is a known carcinogen and is directly linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box (larynx), esophagus, colon and rectum, liver, and breast with risk rising as consumption increases. Excessive alcohol use can also lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, digestive problems, weaker immune system, depression and anxiety, and memory and relationship problems.

Recent research shows that even moderate drinking (2 drinks or less in a day for men and 1 drink or less in a day for women) may increase the risk of alcohol-related harm compared to not drinking at all.

"Small changes in your approach to drinking can make a big difference in reducing your chances of having alcohol-related problems,” said Rebecca Neudecker, section manager for NMDOH’s Office of Alcohol Misuse Prevention.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism suggests these tips for cutting back: 

• Keep track of how much you drink.
• Find alternatives to drinking alcohol.
• Avoid triggers that lead you to want to drink.
• Know your “no”. 

This Friday, April 10, is National Alcohol Screening Day, promoting awareness through free and anonymous screenings to assess drinking habits. If you or someone you care about has questions about alcohol use, including medication for alcohol use disorder, please speak to your primary care provider. You can also explore these resources: Alcohol Misuse Prevention and Live More NM. 

If you need help finding a provider, please call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773).  You can also text questions to 66364 (NMDOH).

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El Mes de la Concienciación sobre el Alcohol es un momento para reflexionar