Alcohol consumption linked to unprotected sex
According to results from a recent study, the more alcohol individuals consume the higher the likelihood of them having unprotected sex.
Researchers from the University of Toronto have found that as alcohol consumption increases, so does an individuals willingness to engage in risky behaviour such as unprotected sex.
The university experts pooled together results from 12 previous studies that looked at the relationship between unprotected sex and alcohol consumption.
After bringing together the results and analysing the combined data they found that decision-making was influenced by the level of alcohol that was consumed.
For every 0.1mg/ml increase in blood alcohol level, the intention to engage in unprotected sex rose by an average of 5%.
The team presented the findings of their study in the journal Addiction, concluding that alcohol use is a risk factor for intentions to engage in unsafe sex. They also stated that this finding may be of public health importance as the role of alcohol could be a factor in the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Policy and campaigns director at the National AIDS Trust, Yusef Azad has said that the study results suggest that a better link-up between alcohol programmes and sexual health services is needed to provide support for those who are concerned about sexual risk, and wish to receive help to tackle their problematic alcohol use.
If you are concerned that your alcohol consumption may be having an impact on your ability to make decisions then it is important that you seek help. Visit your GP who will be able to provide you with professional advice and support about appropriate treatment interventions.
Hypnotherapy has also long since been used as an alternative method of tackling problematic alcohol consumption. For information about hypnotherapy for alcohol abuse please visit our fact-sheet to find out more.
View and comment on the original Independent article.