Senegal

Alcohol abuse in Senegal has reached “massive” levels but most addicts are not receiving the help they need, according to experts. The trend reflects a global phenomenon. The WHO’s 2008 Global Burden of Disease study shows that in both low- and high-income countries the harmful use of alcohol is now among the 10 leading causes of disability. Drinking patterns around the world have changed in recent years, with consumption increasing the most markedly in developing countries, according to the WHO. Drinking to excess, and heavy episodic drinking among young people, are also on the rise in many countries, the UN organization says. (IRIN)