Though alcohol is a handy crutch during social situations, consuming too much on a regular basis can lead to health complications. Photo: Shutterstock

Though alcohol is a handy crutch during social situations, consuming too much on a regular basis can lead to health complications. Photo: Shutterstock

Luxembourg’s equivalent of Dry January -- where participants vow not to consume alcohol for the duration of January -- has been launched for the second time. The Sober buddy challenge is an initiative of the Cancer foundation.

A glass of wine to relax here, an after-work event there: alcohol consumption is a normal part of Luxembourg life. Yet, if consumed regularly and in high doses, it becomes the second biggest risk factor--after tobacco--in causing cancer, by impacting hormones and the liver, for instance. 

A European health report in 2010 had revealed that more than one in three adults in Luxembourg consume too much alcohol, placing it on the third place behind Denmark and Romania.  

To raise awareness on the dangers of alcohol and personal drinking habits, the Cancer foundation in 2021 launched the challenge. To make it a less lonely task, the participants were made to invite a friend, family member or colleague to join them. A success, says Cancer.lu, as 99% of participants are keen on reiterating the challenge this year, while nearly half had completed the task.

Among the positive short term effects reported were a better sleep quality--for 48% of “buddies”--while 32% noticed their weight go down, and 27% felt they could concentrate better.

For its new campaign, Cancer.lu proposes a dynamic website and app, using compelling arguments for the short-term effect of stopping alcohol consumption, such as a clear skin, less hangovers, more savings, better sleep and overall health, as well as a healthier relationship with your liver.

Participants can sign up for free with a buddy for the challenge .