Too much alcohol can lead to poor work performance the next day

A study also found 27% of people admitted drinking too much, which doctors described as "worrying".

The figures showed 80% of 18-to-24 year-olds and 19% of all Scots, said they had struggled to do their jobs because of a hangover.

About one in five of 1,000 Scots questioned said they sometimes drank with the sole intention to "get drunk".

More than 1,000 adults were interviewed about their drinking habits in the survey by Developing Patient Partnerships (DPP), a health education charity.

Alcohol accounts for one in 30 of all deaths in Scotland and the cost to the NHS is estimated to be as much as �1.13bn each year Dr Mary Church British Medical Association

Dr Mary Church, joint chairman of the British Medical Association's Scottish General Practitioners Committee, said she was concerned at the results of the survey.

She said: "Alcohol has always played a part in Scottish social life and although most people drink sensibly, binge drinking and drinking just to get drunk is becoming a real health hazard for some Scots.

"Alcohol accounts for one in 30 of all deaths in Scotland and the cost to the NHS is estimated to be as much as �1.13bn each year.

"The results of this survey are worrying as the numbers are probably a lot higher if you take into account people who are unaware that they are drinking too much.

"If people are equipped with the knowledge of what dangerous drinking levels are, coupled with really practical advice about how to cut down and stay in control of their drinking, then it will go a long way to ensure that people enjoy a drink without overdoing it."

'Keep track'

The Scottish National Party's Stewart Maxwell called for action to tackle Scotland's drinking culture.

He said: "This survey is a stark reminder of the work we still have to do to combat Scotland's drinking culture.

"We must look now at starting a national debate looking at what action can be taken to address this serious and growing problem.

"We need to examine not only our licensing laws but also the advertising, availability and affordability of alcohol."

The DPP has launched its Alcohol and You campaign to offer people practical advice on enjoying alcohol without overdoing it.