The NHS Confederation's Jo Webber, said: "Alcohol is already costing the NHS more than £3 billion a year and the problem is taking an intolerable toll on our society. 

Fifth of A&E admissions

"In some parts of the country more than a fifth of A&E admissions are alcohol related. Drink can be a contributory factor with some of our biggest killers such as cancer. It can also lead to particular difficulties for people with mental health problems. 

"The fact that only one in 18 people who are dependent on alcohol receives treatment shows we need to up our game. But solving the problem is not something the NHS can do alone. 

Impact of drinking habits

"We need to seriously examine the impact our drinking habits have on our health. And we must look at how the NHS, local and central government, and the justice system work together to minimise the harmful effects alcohol has on individuals, their families and our wider society.  

Price and availability

“The NHS can of course carry on picking up the tab for our nation’s drinking. But if it does so without some consideration being given by society as a whole to the price and availability of alcohol, we will be using a sticking plaster solution for a national problem."

More information

See details of today's figures on the NHS Information Centre website, and read the NHS Confederation's submission to the Health Select Committee's alcohol strategy inquiry.