The Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) is urging people who drink heavily to recognise early warning signs of alcohol dependence and seek professional help before the problem worsens.
RBC says people should pay attention when they begin feeling restless or unwell when they have not consumed alcohol but feel better after drinking.
Another warning sign is developing a tolerance to alcohol, where the amount a person previously consumed no longer has the same effect, leading them to seek stronger drinks or consume larger quantities.
RBC also cautions that repeated attempts to stop drinking or reduce alcohol consumption that end unsuccessfully could indicate an emerging alcohol-related disorder.
Continuing to drink despite knowing that alcohol is causing harm is another warning sign that should not be ignored.
The health agency says harmful alcohol use can affect several areas of life beyond physical health, including work, education, relationships and mental wellbeing.
Frequent memory problems, declining interest or performance at work or school, and persistent sadness are among the issues RBC says should prompt people to consider seeking help.
The warning comes as Rwanda steps up efforts to curb harmful alcohol consumption. A recent national campaign, Tunywe Less, was launched after health data showed that alcohol consumption had risen in Rwanda, with the share of people consuming alcohol increasing from 41% in 2013 to 48% in 2022.
RBC stresses that alcohol-related problems can be treated and encourages people experiencing warning signs to seek medical care early.
The agency says early recognition and intervention can help people address harmful drinking before it causes more serious consequences for their health and daily lives.
