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PANAJI: Goa is grappling with a significant public health issue, as the Goa Medical College (GMC) reports between 140 and 160 admissions for chronic liver disease each month. Alarmingly, the state records over 300 deaths annually due to liver cirrhosis, a condition predominantly caused by chronic alcoholism.

Medical Superintendent Dr. Rajesh Patil highlights a concerning trend: “Two to three decades ago, we saw patients in their forties or fifties with liver cirrhosis, but we now have them in their twenties.” This shift aligns with a noticeable decrease in the age of individuals initiating alcohol consumption, with many starting between the ages of 12 and 14.

The broader implications of this issue are profound. Studies indicate that one-third of suicides in India occur under the influence of alcohol, and two-thirds of domestic violence cases are linked to alcohol consumption. Additionally, 40% of job absenteeism and 80% of medical emergencies reported in government hospitals are associated with alcohol use.

Experts emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive awareness campaigns targeting students and the general public. Dr. Ashish Deshpande, founder of the Centre for Mental Health Advocacy, Research, and Treatment Services, asserts, “Alcoholism is a disease, not a disgrace, so we must keep talking about it.” He advocates for evidence-based interventions in schools and synchronized efforts to disseminate information throughout the population.

Addressing this escalating crisis requires a multifaceted approach, including early education on the dangers of alcohol, accessible treatment options for those affected, and robust support systems to mitigate the social and economic impacts of alcoholism.

Disclaimer: This article is based on information available up to February 21, 2025, and may not reflect the most current data or developments on this issue. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/goa-sees-over-300-liver-cirrhosis-deaths-a-year-as-even-teenagers-hit-the-bottle/articleshow/118429306.cms 

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