March 29, 2024

Governor: April is Alcohol Awareness Month

Gov. Terry E. Branstad signed a proclamation establishing April as Alcohol Awareness Month in Iowa.

“In order for Iowa to continue leading the nation in supporting healthy lifestyles, we must keep educating our young people on the potential perils of alcohol abuse,” said Branstad. “I’m pleased to sign this proclamation today establishing April as Alcohol Awareness Month in our state to draw attention to alcohol abuse.”

Alcohol abuse in Iowa continues to be a major concern and it knows no boundaries based on affluence or education. According to a report by the United Health Foundation, 24.5 percent of Iowans earning $75,000 or more annually admit to heavy drinking (four or more drinks/woman or five or more drinks/man) for one occasion. Conversely, 15.8 percent of those earning less than $25,000 reported heavy drinking. 20.7 percent of college graduates report heavy drinking while those with some college report 20.8 percent.

Heavy alcohol consumption leads to a long list of lifelong health challenges and the danger of driving under the influence of alcohol continues to be a major threat to public safety.