Again This Texas City Was Ranked the Drunkest in America

Sherman-Denison, Texas, once again finds itself in the unenviable position of being named the city with the highest reported heavy drinking in the United States. This is according to a recent report by 24/7 Tempo, a financial news website.

The report analyzed data from the 2022 County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, focusing on self-reported instances of heavy or binge drinking among adults over 18. Sherman-Denison, with a population of around 143,000, topped the charts, with 21.1% of residents admitting to such behavior.

While this statistic is concerning, it’s important to note that Sherman-Denison’s drunk driving rates are lower than the state average. Countywide DUI-related fatalities are at 23.6%, lower than the Texas average of 25.4%.

Understanding “Drunkest”

It’s important to understand the methodology behind this ranking. The report defines “heavy drinking” as consuming more than 15 drinks for men or more than 8 drinks for women in a week. Binge drinking is classified as consuming 4 or more drinks for men or 5 or more drinks for women on a single occasion.

Public Health Concerns

This report highlights a serious public health concern in Sherman-Denison and potentially other Texas cities. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to numerous health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, and certain cancers.

Local health officials and community organizations should use this data to raise awareness about the dangers of excessive drinking and promote responsible alcohol consumption habits.

Conclusion

While Sherman-Denison’s high rate of reported heavy drinking is alarming, it presents an opportunity for the community to address and mitigate the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption. By understanding the data and promoting healthier habits, Sherman-Denison can work towards improving the well-being of its residents.