According to the findings of a research published by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, 'binge drinking' is on the increase in the present times vis-a-vis the scenario almost a decade back, with middle-aged women hitting the bottle far too often than they did in the past.

The research, titled 'Drinking in the UK,' has revealed data pertaining to current drinking trends in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, comparing the figures with those over the last two to three decades. The findings indicate a significant increase in alcohol consumption among the general population.

A study of drinking habits of middle-aged Scottish women showed that their weekly 'binge drinking' sessions have increased almost two times during the last eight years or so. While Scottish women aged between 45 and 54 drank an average of 5.6 units per week in
1995, the figures rose to 11.2 units in 2003.

In the opinion of the report's lead author, Lesley Smith, the "historically recent emancipation of women in Western society," financial security and independence, have possibly led to increased drinking in women, who now have a more active and sociable lifestyle.

Smith said: "One possible explanation for the increase in drinking among older age groups over recent years is that we have a more affluent and active older population, with more disposable income."