Statistics !

Some wit once observed " There are lies - damn lies - and then there are statistics ! "

It is possible to seemingly prove - or disprove just about anything by cleverly using statistics.

The latest edict from the scientific community concerns heavy drinking - described as imbibing ten or more drinks a day. It claims that this brings about an 80% increase in the incidence of eosophageal, liver, colon, stomach and prostate cancer and a 60% increase in lung cancer.

Of course it completely ignores the fact that heavy drinkers are more likely to also be smokers - and have an unhealthy lifestyle, be employed in dangerous industries - plus have little interest in a diet as recommended by the health authorities.

Over the years statistics have been used to create some mighty health clangers ! Do you remember the days when all school children were given free milk daily - because it was healthy for them ?

Suddenly milk was a health hazard - and the free milk scheme ceased. Later, when milk was reinstated the politicians ignored resuming free milk because of cost concerns.

Then there was the good old egg. People who enjoyed eggs and bacon - or a poached egg for breakfast were appalled to learn that it was a health hazard. Eggs were definitely off the menu for the health conscious. New research has turned that edict on it's head - and eggs have been rehabilitated.

There is one sure way to deal with health statistics.

Take them with a grain of salt !