Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 7: A new study reveals that Generation Z is drinking far less alcohol than previous generations, sparking a cultural transformation that could bring significant public health improvements if the trend holds steady.

Researchers from Flinders University, Australia, analyzed over 20 years of data from more than 23,000 Australians and found that Gen Z is almost 20 times more likely to abstain from alcohol compared to Baby Boomers, even after accounting for various social factors. Not only are they choosing to avoid alcohol more frequently, but when they do drink, their weekly consumption is substantially lower.

“This isn’t just a passing phase,” said lead author Dr. Gianluca Di Censo. “It represents a lasting change in behavior that could reshape the health landscape in coming decades.”

The study, published in the journal Addiction, shows a clear decline in alcohol use among younger generations. Millennials and Generation X are also drinking less on average than Baby Boomers, signaling a broader societal shift. However, the research noted that while millennials and Gen Xers tend to consume more alcohol per drinking occasion, their overall weekly intake is still lower—highlighting ongoing concerns about binge drinking.

Interestingly, the Silent Generation (born before 1946) reported the highest weekly alcohol consumption, surpassing even Baby Boomers. This points to the need for targeted interventions among older adults who remain vulnerable to alcohol-related health risks.

Understanding the factors behind this decline—be it economic pressures, evolving social norms, or policy changes—could help shape effective public health strategies moving forward, the researchers said.

Dr. Di Censo emphasized the role of policies such as minimum alcohol pricing, advertising restrictions, and focused health campaigns in sustaining this positive momentum. At the same time, he cautioned against complacency, highlighting the importance of addressing high-risk groups like adolescents prone to binge drinking and middle-aged adults with heavy weekly consumption.

If the current trajectory continues, the study suggests that future generations could experience markedly better health outcomes linked to reduced alcohol consumption.