10 February 2010

Alcohol won't fix a broken heart

At a time when money is tight and home-drinking is on the increase (2 nights in compared to 1.5 nights out a week (1)) the Coventry Community Safety Partnership has decided to send a Valentine's card to every household in Coventry. The aim is to make people aware that alcohol can not only affect their health but also their relationships.

The card opens with the message ‘Alcohol won’t fix a broken heart’ which comes with two messages; the first being health….

Excessive drinking has a direct effect on the heart and women who persistently drink more than three units of alcohol (one large glass of wine) a day and men who drink more than four units (two pints of larger) a day are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disorders such as high blood pressure, the risk of a heart attack or stroke (1).

Heavy consumption of alcohol or binge drinking can also cause:
- Sudden, irregular rhythm of the heart in apparently healthy people (1)
- An increased risk of thrombosis - blood clotting (1)
- Enlargement of the heart. This is a sign that the heart is unable to pump effectively (1)

Secondly relationships;

Alcohol can affect people in many ways and acts as an anti-depressant. If you're feeling a little low or have had an argument alcohol can affect your actions - The British Crime Survey states - 45% of all violence involves alcohol - including violence in the home.

Cllr Andrew, Williams, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Community Safety, said "Valentine's Day is a time when people should celebrate their relationships but we know after a few drinks, arguments can happen and tempers can flare, often resulting in violence.

We hope by combining a Valentines card with some timely and appropriate messages, we can encourage people to think more about their actions towards loved ones and enjoy this Valentines"

Contact details

For more information about the card please contact Emma Davies, Assistant Communications Officer on 024 7683 2422.

Notes to editors

To view the card visit www.coventry.gov.uk/alcohol/newsandevents

Lesley Sigston, Alcohol Harm Reduction Coordinator & Commissioner is available for interviews until 18 February please call her on 024 7683 4119 to arrange a suitable time.

The card will be delivered to every household during mid February from 11th onwards.

1 - www.drinkaware.co.uk

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