Binge drinking continues to create havoc on many people, and statistics have shown that men are more at risk than women. But, what is binge drinking? A basic definition of binge drinking is when someone has the primary intention of becoming intoxicated by a heavy consumption of alcohol over a short period of time. It sometimes overlaps social drinking and is most often done in groups. A binge can last for several hours or it can last for many days.
People, especially men, binge drink for several reasons, and typically it begins in adolescence. Drinking heavily, or binge drinking, often makes them feel more grown up, more in touch with their peers, and even the likelihood of sexual encounters are often felt to occur. Often binge drinking is used as a coping mechanism; forgetting problems and alleviating emotional stress.
Here are some of the statistics regarding drinking levels for men. These stats are taken directly from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
- Approximately 62% of adult men reported drinking alcohol in the last 30 days and were more likely to binge drink than women (47%) during the same time period.
- Men average about 12.5 binge drinking episodes per person per year, while women average about 2.7 binge drinking episodes per year.
- Most people who binge drink are not alcoholics or alcohol dependent.
- It is estimated that about 17% of men and about 8% of women will meet criteria for alcohol dependence at some point in their lives.
It’s also interesting to note how some men feel the chances of sexual intercourse will happen more frequently when binge drinking. Statistics show just the opposite. In fact, excessive alcohol use can interfere with testicular function, resulting in impotence, infertility, and reduction of male secondary sex characteristics such as facial and chest hair. However, alcohol is more often involved in sexual assault, when capable, and it also increases the chance of risky sexual activity.
If you feel you are binge drinking or know someone who is, contact Pat Moore Foundation today and talk to one of our counselors. We are available 24 hours a day at 888.426.6086.