Health Expert Warns of Dangerous Alcohol and Cocaine Combination Among Youth

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Ramón Batallar, a prominent hepatologist at Barcelona’s Hospital Clínic, has raised alarms about the increasing prevalence of simultaneous alcohol and cocaine use among young people in Spain. Batallar’s concerns were brought to light after treating two patients in their 30s suffering from alcohol-related liver cirrhosis and heart disease linked to cocaine use. "The combination of alcohol and cocaine is explosive, and many young people are paying for it," he posted on social media, highlighting an alarming trend.

Statistics show that Spain ranks second, following the United Kingdom, in cocaine use among individuals aged 15 to 34. Batallar emphasized the dangerous cycle of consumption where cocaine usage often leads to increased alcohol intake, complicating the health risks involved. He stated, “The combined effects of these substances can result in serious health issues that are still not fully understood.”

Alarmingly, recent trends indicate rising cases of alcohol-related liver diseases in younger demographics, with young women notably increasing their alcohol consumption. Batallar advocates for greater awareness and preventive measures regarding these substances, calling for legislative action from the Spanish Ministry of Health.

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