'Drinking Mirror' App Shows Effects Of Booze

A new phone app is the latest weapon to be launched warning people of the dangers of drinking too much alcohol.

The tool, which can be downloaded from the web onto smartphones and desktops, shows people how their drinking habits could affect their appearance in 10 years, with the help of a 'magic mirror'.

It allows users to upload photos of themselves to see how they might age if they continue to drink at their current rate.

The app is part of the Scottish government's Drop A Glass Size campaign, to encourage men and women to cut back if they regularly drink above the recommended alcohol guidelines.

A standard (175ml) glass of wine contains 2.3 units, a bottle some 10 units and a regular (ABV 4%) pint of lager 2.3 units.

It is recommended men should not drink more than three to four units of alcohol a day and women no more than two to three units.

Figures cited by the campaign show 38% of women and 49% of men exceed the recommended limits in a typical week.

In the short-term, this can lead to weight gain, skin problems, memory loss and depression, it says.

Over the longer term, it can cause more serious problems such as high blood pressure, chronic liver disease and breast cancer.

"Regularly drinking over the sensible drinking guidelines can put our physical and mental health at risk," the campaign warns.

"By making small changes to the way you drink, you can make a big difference."

The app can be found on the campaign website at www.drinksmarter.org