Ragbir: Alcohol abuse and alcohol-related dementia on the rise

Dr. Rai Ragbir,  Member of Parliament for Cumuto/Manzanilla and “shadow” Minister of Health, has called for the urgent implementation of a national alcohol policy to tackle the rise of binge drinking and alcoholism in Trinidad and Tobago. 

Dr. Ragbir highlighted the growing concern over alcohol abuse, saying, “The devastating impact of alcohol abuse is evident not only in the increasing number of alcohol-related health problems but also in the alarming rise of alcohol-related dementia, which is robbing our citizens of their future.” He emphasised that alcohol-related dementia impairs cognitive function, memory, and personality, leaving affected individuals unable to care for themselves. This crisis, he noted, extends beyond those directly affected, placing significant strain on families and communities as well as the healthcare system. 

“This is not just a problem for individuals,” Dr. Ragbir said. “It’s a problem for our entire society, as we are forced to treat conditions that are entirely preventable.” 

He said binge drinking has become a “silent epidemic” in Trinidad and Tobago, contributing to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, as well as mental health issues. Dr. Ragbir pointed out that “too many of our people are suffering in silence, particularly younger individuals who mistakenly believe they are invincible.” 

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