welt.de
Germany's High Addiction Rates: 146,500 Annual Deaths and €57 Billion Economic Cost
Germany's 2025 addiction report reveals 99,000 smoking and 47,500 alcohol-related deaths annually, costing €57 billion, with alcohol significantly more affordable than in other European countries and high consumption rates across age groups.
- What are the long-term societal implications and potential policy challenges associated with addressing Germany's addiction problem?
- Raising alcohol taxes by 5 percent could decrease per capita consumption by 2.2 percent and prevent 850 alcohol-related deaths, generating an additional €1.4 billion in tax revenue for the government. However, this measure faces political opposition, with some arguing that higher prices won't deter addicts. The report also highlights a concerning rise in the use of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products among young people.
- What are the immediate consequences of Germany's high rates of alcohol and tobacco consumption, and what is the total annual death toll?
- The 2025 DHS Yearbook on Addiction reveals that approximately 99,000 deaths annually result from smoking and 47,500 from alcohol consumption in Germany. At least 20 percent of the population drinks excessively, with 9 percent showing alcohol misuse or dependence among 18-64 year-olds. The total economic cost of alcohol-related issues is estimated at €57 billion annually.
- How does the affordability of alcohol in Germany contribute to the current situation, and what are the proposed policy changes to address this?
- The affordability of alcohol in Germany, significantly lower than in other European countries, is a key factor contributing to the high death toll and economic burden. Prices for alcoholic beverages have risen far less than food prices over the past two decades. Experts propose increasing alcohol taxes as a means to curb consumption and generate additional government revenue.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the issue of addiction primarily through the lens of economic costs and mortality rates. While this highlights the severity of the problem, it may overshadow the human suffering and social consequences for individuals and families affected. The headline and introduction emphasize the alarming statistics rather than potential solutions, potentially leading readers to feel hopeless rather than empowered to address the issue.
Language Bias
While the article presents factual information, the use of terms like "fatal consequences" and "alarming statistics" creates a tone of alarm and potential negativity. The repeated emphasis on the negative aspects of alcohol and tobacco consumption might inadvertently discourage readers from seeking help. More neutral language could be used to ensure balanced reporting.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on alcohol and tobacco addiction, but provides limited details on the specific types of support available for those struggling with addiction. While economic consequences are mentioned, details on available treatment options and government support programs are absent. This omission could leave readers with an incomplete understanding of the resources available to address these problems.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by focusing primarily on the negative consequences of alcohol and tobacco consumption and implying that higher taxes are the only solution. It does not explore other potential interventions like public health campaigns, education, or alternative policies that could also impact consumption.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the significant health consequences of alcohol and tobacco consumption in Germany, resulting in approximately 99,000 deaths annually from smoking and 47,500 from alcohol. This directly impacts SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by increasing the burden of preventable diseases and premature mortality. The high prevalence of alcohol abuse and addiction (affecting over 20% of the population) further contributes to the negative impact.