Consultant warns of binge dangers

Liver consultant Dr Jan Freeman said 20 of 26 beds in Derby City Hospital's liver ward were occupied by alcoholics.

"It is so sad to see so many young people dying," he said.

The youngest patient to die from liver disease at the hospital was a 21-year-old man. He started drinking alcohol at the age of eight.

Someone is admitted to hospital in the UK every four hours because they have had too much to drink, statistics show.

"I think the world would be a better place if there wasn't any alcohol"
Louise Dunn

At least 17% of men and 6.5% of women are considered as binge drinkers.

Louise Dunn, 29, an alcoholic who has liver disease, said: "It has taken my job away and my self-esteem. Sometimes I don't feel like doing anything hardly.

"I used to be so outgoing but it has ruined me. I wish I could turn back time."

Figures show that 45% of all boys are drinking by age 15 and young women are more likely to die of liver disease than cervical cancer.

Mr Freeman said: "It is very disturbing. Most patients that arrive do not realise what damage they have done to themselves. But when they arrive at hospital then they realise they face a huge battle to survive."

Ms Dunn said: "You only have one life and it is precious. I think the world would be a better place if there wasn't any alcohol."

Gurvinder Sagoo, 32, started drinking when he was a teenager and has now lost his job, his friends and has almost died from alcoholic liver disease.

"I feel fatigued and can't walk very far and there is not a lot I can do. I feel like a big baby being looked after by my mum and dad."

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Derby Hospitals NHS Trust
British Medical Association
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