Binge drinking rates are higher in Iowa than other states
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Iowa continues to have some of the highest excessive drinking rates in the country.
Why it matters: While any drinking can create risks, binge drinking is linked with compromised immune systems, chronic disease and memory and learning problems.
Driving the news: The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services released a report last November based on 2022 data showing the state is fourth-highest in the U.S. for binge drinking and sixth-highest for heavy drinking.
Details: The CDC categorizes binge drinking as more than four drinks for women or five for men in one sitting.
- Heavy drinking is more than eight drinks per week for women or 15 for men.
By the numbers: About 23% of Iowans reported binge or excessive drinking in 2022, according to the CDC.
- Binge drinking was highest among household incomes of between $50,000-$74,999, while heavy drinking was highest among households earning more than $75,000.
- Binge drinking was also more prevalent among Iowa men (29%) compared to women (14%).
Flashback: While the pandemic resulted in record levels of statewide alcohol sales, excessive drinking has historically been more prevalent in Iowa and in the Midwest.
- The state noted as far back as 2007 that residents binge drink at "significantly higher" rates than in the rest of the U.S.
The big picture: Reasons vary for why Midwesterners tend to drink more, including our cold climate, college and rural drinking culture and German and Scandinavian roots.
Be smart: A 2020 Iowa report shows that after six months of substance use treatment, only 45% of people still used alcohol.
- But many people are hesitant to seek help themselves or recognize they have a problem.
How to get help: The new 988 line is there to help anyone with a crisis and YourLife Iowa provides addiction support.