Digital iDEAS trial launched to help reduce alcohol intake

A new trial offering digital support to help people reduce their alcohol consumption has been launched by UCL researchers. With the apparent rise in drinking during the UK lockdown, investigators say the iDEAS study is timely. Since January 2016, UK Government guidelines have recommended that both men and women should not drink more than 14 units of alcohol per week. However, since the lockdown began in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, many people have reported consuming more alcohol than normal. The effects of excessive drinking outside of the advised guidelines are wide-ranging and can have short and long-term effects on a person's health. Potentially serious health conditions can result from drinking too much, including heart and liver disease and some types of cancer; as well as negative impacts on weight, erectile function and mental health. Digital support, such as apps and websites, for reducing alcohol intake are thought to overcome some of the barriers encountered by traditional face-to-face support and may have potential for decreasing alcohol consumption.