The drinking survey findings have sparked health fears

And the research of Scotland's alcohol culture found almost half of the city's 18 to 35-year-olds had experienced the problem in the last week.

About 300 people were surveyed in Aberdeen, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Falkirk. The majority said drinking was part of their lifestyle.

The research for the Scottish Executive has raised health and safety fears.

More than 75% of those questioned said they felt they had less fun on a night out if it was alcohol-free.

Changing the drinking habits of a nation can't be done overnight, but making people aware is a good starting point Jack Law Alcohol Focus Scotland

And an average of 72% admitted to drinking more on a night out than they had planned.

More than half said the amount they consumed depended on how much their friends were drinking - with around a fifth admitting they did not want to come across as a "lightweight".

Jack Law, chief executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland, said: "The results of this survey are very telling.

"Knowing the reasons why people drink and how they do helps us as a country tackle the problem at its root.

"Changing the drinking habits of a nation can't be done overnight.

'Harmful effects'

"But making people aware that they are drinking to excess, the harmful effects of doing so and the benefits of cutting down is a good starting point."

Almost half said they drank when they were stressed, and in Edinburgh that figure rose to 65%.

And eight out of 10 said they classed drinking as part of their lifestyle.

The survey was commissioned on behalf of the Scottish Executive and aimed to explore attitudes towards drinking among young people.