According to latest data from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Midwest particularly Illinois has the highest rate of binge drinking all over the country.
Richard Florida of The Atlantic reported that the data shows that binge drinking or consuming more than five drinks in a row is one of the country’s major problems that affects many Americans and results in several health issues. The Chicago Sun Times also reported that based on the CDC data, over 38 million Americans drink at least four times a month and binge drinking is common in families with an average income of $75,000.
The Atlantic also states that Illinois is at the center of what they call as “binge drinking belt” in Midwestern with the rate of binge drinking amongst adults at 20%. In addition, the situation in Illinois is further aggravated by several factors that lead to high alcohol intake.
Furthermore, an analysis of the report shows that binge drinking is widespread in liberal states and states that are considered more “extrovert”. A closer look, however, at the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System report reveals that though Illinois has high alcohol consumption rate, the rate of heavy drinking has declined considerably.
On the other hand, the rate of alcohol consumption in all categories in the survey has increased in Chicago. Although, the statistics on Chicago is nothing compared to Wisconsin’s. According to CDC, alcohol-related problems cost the States $746 for each American. However, the report is countered by Derek Brown, a famous D.C. mixologist, by stating that reports like that are misguided.
Nonetheless, binge drinking and excessive alcohol consumption isn’t a healthy behavior for both the individual and the society in general. Hence, if someone is abusing alcohol, it’s necessary to seek early intervention right away.