Between 2018 and 2023, more than 3,600 people in Luxembourg were hospitalised due to excessive alcohol consumption, with minors accounting for just 3% of these cases. While alcohol-related hospitalisations remain a concern, the rate among adolescents in Luxembourg is significantly lower compared to neighbouring countries.
In Germany, for instance, a recent survey by the country’s equivalent of the National Health Fund revealed that the number of teenagers hospitalised for excessive alcohol consumption has dropped by a third in just one year. In contrast, Luxembourg has consistently reported minimal cases of binge drinking among minors. Of the 3,639 alcohol-related hospitalisations recorded in Luxembourg over the five-year period, only 3% involved individuals under the age of 18.
The disparity is further highlighted by the 2023 hospitalisation rates for adolescents aged 12 to 18. In Luxembourg, the rate stood at 0.04%, compared to 0.14% in Germany.
The data also revealed seasonal trends, with the peak months for alcohol-related hospitalisations – particularly among adults – occurring between July and October.
These figures were provided by Minister of Health and Social Security Martine Deprez in response to a parliamentary question from MPs Gilles Baum and André Bauler of the Democratic Party (DP). In her written reply, Deprez noted that the government is considering a more sustainable approach to addressing alcohol misuse. This includes extending existing initiatives and integrating new measures under the Luxembourg Action Plan to Reduce Alcohol Misuse (PALMA), tailored to meet current challenges.
