Earlier discussion https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=36850113

Not mentioned is, that the answer to the headline and the explanation for the drop in England is very likely the introduction and wide adaptation of Laudanum among the poorest segments of society. Like Lobster being formerly food for the poor (its icky insects after all) same pattern is visible with opiates.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opium_trade Wiki also mentions it being the most effective treatment for dysentery and cholera. Here its worth mentioning that drinkable water was the initial reason for the adaptation of alcoholic beverages.