BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Disease Control, on December 28, has issued a warning about the dangers of consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short period, which can lead to acute alcohol poisoning and pose serious risks, including death.
Dr. Panumas Yanwetsakul, Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, highlighted the risks associated with excessive and rapid alcohol consumption, explaining that the liver may be unable to process the alcohol, leading to toxic levels in the bloodstream. This can disrupt bodily functions and result in life-threatening shock.
Alcohol acts as a central nervous system depressant, and its effects depend on the amount consumed. For instance, drinking an entire bottle of liquor in one sitting can raise blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 250 milligrams percent, causing symptoms such as vomiting, choking, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, and potentially death from alcohol overdose.
Gradual drinking allows the body to metabolize alcohol, preventing dangerous accumulation in the bloodstream. However, rapid consumption, particularly during festive promotions or drinking competitions, can quickly lead to severe complications.
Dr. Nipon Chinanontwet, Director of the Office of Alcohol Beverage Control, explained that BAC levels above 50 milligrams percent increase the risk of accidents, injuries, and aggressive behavior. At levels exceeding 200 milligrams percent, confusion and incoherence occur, and levels above 300 milligrams percent result in drowsiness and lethargy. When BAC exceeds 400 milligrams percent (equivalent to consuming 1–1.5 bottles of liquor), symptoms such as choking, vomiting, respiratory depression, unconsciousness, and death are highly likely.
High BAC levels suppress the brain areas responsible for breathing and consciousness, making heavy drinking in a short time extremely hazardous.
The Department of Disease Control advises the public to drink responsibly during festive periods, especially during New Year celebrations, when alcohol promotions and competitions are common. Drinking alcohol rapidly can lead to central nervous system suppression, choking, respiratory issues, unconsciousness, and even death.
To stay safe, individuals are urged not to exceed their personal alcohol tolerance limits and to avoid rapid consumption. Alcohol’s dangers far outweigh its benefits.
The public is encouraged to report violations of alcohol-related laws via the TAS website at http://tas.go.th or by calling the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422. (TNA)
