Ian Hamilton, a lecturer in the Department of Health Sciences at York University, has bought forward certain harmful impacts of the Dry January campaign run by Alcohol Concern and resulted in reduction of alcohol consumption of over 2 million people in 2015. The expert suggests that the campaign’s ‘all or nothing’ slogan is likely to cause more harm than good. However, the campaign suggests that being a part of it can bring about several benefits, from losing weight to money and getting better sleep.

However, Ian Hamilton has argued that the popularity of the campaign doesn’t necessarily transform into effectiveness. He stated that this kind of campaign is not subjected to rigorous evaluation. He added that since the people have the right to participate or not, it is quite possible that people who are at the lowest level of health risk from drinking become a part of the campaign. And since their alcohol consumption is less, it is not very tough for them completely quit alcohol for a month. Furthermore, sudden restriction on drinking is likely to cause severe health issues, like seizures, among the heavy drinkers.

Hamilton’s view was opposed by Professor Sir Ian Gilmore, an honorary consultant physician at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, and a board member of trustees at Alcohol Concern. He stated that Public Health England’s assessment of 2015 campaign revealed that 67% participants reduced drinking six months on and 8% completely quit drinking. The University of Sussex’s assessment showed that 79% of them saved money, while 62% experienced improved sleep and higher energy levels, with 49% confirming loss of weight. Also, for heavy drinkers it was suggested to consult their GP prior to suddenly stopping. Not having alcohol for one month can improve blood pressure, cholesterol and liver quality, according to Alcohol Concern’s Chief Executive, Jackie Ballard.