Public health advocates and researchers recently announced the release of "The Burden of Excessive Alcohol Use in Wisconsin." The report concludes that excessive alcohol consumption costs Wisconsin $6.8 billion annually and estimates that Kewaunee County is paying $34.6 million every year to cover costs associated with excessive alcohol use.
Statewide, the amount that is paid annually for the consequences of excessive alcohol use eclipses Wisconsin's yearly $6.2 billion investment in K-12 public schools through the Department of Public Instruction. The report's conclusion breaks down to nearly $1,200 a year per person in the state.
"The costs of alcohol overuse in Kewaunee County are simply astounding," said Carol Stuebs, who heads up the Kewaunee County prevention coalition called FACES. "We have known that excessive alcohol use, which includes binge drinking and underage drinking among other things, is a problem for our county. And, now we have a clear picture of the financial costs that we bear as a community. Hopefully we will use this information as a call to action for change."
About 42 percent of the $34.6 million cost is shouldered by taxpayers. The estimate is based on insurance rates, diverted government spending to address substance abuse related crimes, lost economic output, and higher health-care costs.
The report, which is based on 2011 data, showed that Wisconsin has the highest binge drinking rate in the nation. Kewaunee County's rate is 9 percentage points higher than the state average and twice the national average. Binge drinking is considered responsible for three-fourths of the economic costs associated with excessive alcohol consumption.
"Fortunately, we know what kind of policies can make a difference at the state and local level," Stuebs said. "Families And Communities Encouraging Success (FACES) has been working for almost seven years to make positive changes in the county. FACES has focused efforts on reducing underage use of alcohol through education and providing wholesome activities for youth in our communities. The group also strives to educate and encourage citizens to make decisions that will promote health and safety for all our citizens."
Individuals who would like to become involved in the FACES and their efforts to address excessive use of alcohol and other risky behaviors may contact Stuebs at (920) 388-7165.