A NEW survey has suggested many adults are not taking notice of alcohol awareness campaigns and are failing to keep track of their weekly intake.

The results show that 71 per cent of adults keep no record of the number of units they drink in a week.

The survey was carried out by administration firm Zolfo Cooper and asked 2,000 people whether they kept an eye on their levels of consumption.

It found men were even less likely than women to do so.

This comes on the back of recent figures showing the number of binge drinkers in Swindon has risen to 24,400.

Swindon GP Dr Peter Swinyard says there shouldbe a change in focus in alcohol awareness campaigns.

He said: “Rather than having people take note every time they have a drink, they should be aware when they are having too much.

“For most people alcohol in moderation is not a problem. It is when they start to consume large amounts every day or drink very heavily in one night that it becomes an issue.

“I had a patient who was only drinking one night a week but he would drink almost 100 units.

“We need to make sure they know where to turn.”

Dr Swinyard also believes the main cause for concern is not necessarily the younger generation but those who are older and regularly drink at home every night.

“There are quite a few in this age category who don’t go out but sit at home and have a drink,” he said.

“When at home, a poured glass of wine is often much bigger than one served in the pubs and spirits may be triple of what you would get out.

“People do not realise what they are taking and the damage they are doing. More of a focus should be on educating these people.”

Cherry Jones, Swindon Council’s Acting Director of Public Health, said: “Regularly drinking over the recommended alcohol guidelines can lead to serious health problems, from liver damage to a greater risk of getting cancer or a heart attack.

“Drinking issues can sneak up on people – the odd glass in the evening can quickly become two or three regular glasses, most evenings. Alcohol also contains calories, and can therefore lead to weight gain.

“During this festive time we are encouraging people to think about the amount they are consuming and asking them to try and cut down.

“Reducing alcohol consumption will mean a reduced risk to your health, and you could look better, feel better and have more cash.”