The average Irish person in treatment for problem alcohol use starts drinking at the age of 16, two years before they are legally allowed to consume alcohol.
Figures from the Health Research Board (HRB) show that more than 40,000 cases were treated between 2008 and 2012.
The total numbers treated increased from 7,940 in 2008 to 8,336 in 2011. However numbers fell back in 2012 to 8,336.
The number of new cases treated rose by 17.9% - from 3,833 in 2008 to 4,520 in 2011- but dropping to 4,028 in 2012.
The total number of new cases treated for problem alcohol use increased each year, except for 2012. While the number of cases who returned for treatment increased from 3,606 in 2008 to 4,212 in 2012.
The incidence of treatment for problem alcohol use for the period was highest in Waterford, Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim and Wexford.
While the lowest rates were seen in Clare, Roscommon, Wicklow, Mayo and Meath.
The largest proportion (39.9%) treated for alcohol cases in 2012 lived in the HSE-South region, and almost one-quarter (24.1%) lived in the HSE Dublin Mid-Leinster
area.
18% of those treated for problem alcohol use in 2012 also reported using at least one other drug.
In 2012, the most common drugs used by treated alcohol cases in conjunction with alcohol we cannabis, followed by cocaine, benzodiazepines and ecstasy.
The HRB says many of those in treatment for problem alcohol use started drinking alcohol at 16, with almost no change seen over the past five years.
Alcohol Action Ireland says it is very concerned that consumption is begining earlier in childhood. But Communications Officer Conor Cullen says we should not be all that surprised.
