Eastern Finland leads in alcohol-related illnesses

Eastern Finland has the highest rates of alcohol-related illnesses in the country, with Kainuu, South Savo, and North and South Karelia most affected, according to the latest disease burden index from the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL).

South Karelia’s chief physician Sami Raasakka reports that alcohol misuse is particularly visible in emergency care, where many accidents occur under the influence. Long-term alcohol abuse can also mimic Alzheimer’s disease, with suspected cases sometimes revealing alcohol-induced brain damage instead.

THL’s index, tracked since 2017, shows a consistent east-west divide, with western regions like Ostrobothnia and Uusimaa reporting the lowest rates. The data reflects diagnosed cases and treatment sought, not direct alcohol consumption figures.

Raasakka notes that heavy drinking has long been prevalent in South Karelia, historically linked to cheap imported vodka. While youth alcohol use has declined, the long-term health effects remain to be seen.