45% Goans alcoholics, AA statistics reveal

FALL OUT OF ECONOMIC COLONIALISM
This is a modest figure. The incidence could be much higher considering alcoholism is a disease of denial and remains under wraps for a long period of time.

HERALD REPORTER
MARGAO, NOV 10
These statistics compiled by Alcoholic Anonymous may be a cause of concern for Goan society.
If AA data is to be believed, approximately more than 45 per cent of Goans consume legal alcohol – way ahead of the Indian average of 25 per cent for other States.
It is estimated that there might be about a lakh of alcoholics in Goa. About 32 per cent of rural family income and 24 per cent of urban family income is spent on alcohol in India.
Says noted psychiatric Dr Ashish Deshpande: “Medical fraternity believes that compulsive, impulsive and uncontrolled drinking of alcohol is a disease rather than a disgrace. All over the world, treating alcoholics has been a challenge to medical community. All the efforts to help the suffering alcoholic finally boils down to the 12-step programme of AA”.
Saying that Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism, Dr Deshpande said the only requirement for the membership is a desire to stop drinking. “There are no dues or fees for AA membership. They are self supporting through their own contributions”, he added.
Saying that AA is not allied with any sector, denomination, politics, organisation or institution and does not wish to engage in any controversy, he said the primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics achieve sobriety.
Meanwhile, Alcohol Anonymous will hold an international convention at the Ravindra Bhavan on November 12, at 5.30 pm to celebrate the completion of 75 years of fellowship.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister Digambar Kamat will address a public awareness meeting at the Ravindra Bhavan in the presence of renowned director Mahesh Bhat, actress and producer Pooja Bhat, actor and comedian Johny Lever, besides Remo Fernandes.
Dr Deshpande claimed that around 2000 delegates world wide are expected to attend the convention.