Newsletter March 2011 – e –
Donnerstag 31. März 2011 von htm
www.alkoholpolitik.ch Newsletter March 2011 (issued 03/31/11)
Dear English speaking reader, dear friends,
I am glad to send you examples of the new entries on my website. See the website for more entries.
After modernising the website we had to alter the look of this newsletter too. We have split the articles in two separate language newsletters, German and English. With a mouseclick on the titles you come to the original article where you find also the links to the source. We hope to meet your requirements. It is now much shorter and better to read. Anyhow we are willing to improve it when you give us a feedback with proposals. Please check, if you have included our address in your list of accepted addresses that your SPAM-filter doesn’t exclude our newsletter.
| 4106 articles in 141 categories and with 10’346 main expressions (tags) since 1/1/2009. Online since August 2001. |
Kind regards
Yours Hermann T. Meyer
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Text with Newsletter March 2011 by e-mail
Japan and the Arabian World have taken most of the news space during the last weeks. But anyhow, the alcohol problem has seldom been on top of the news. But it is really frustrating to see how the people of Arabian states are fighting for freedom, also freedom of information and we are for example in Switzerland not allowed to get relevant alcohol related informations from the government and from the media. Our freedom is limited by the alcohol lobby. The people doesn’t know and cannot react.
In many parts of the world there are on the other hand many good initiatives on the way with a strong intention to curb alcohol problems. This month we read about South Africa, Tanzania, Australia, New Zealand. In the USA Maryland has got an alcohol tax bill accepted by the Senate.
In the Federal State Vermont a Bill was introduced to ban the sale of flavored malt beverages in containers larger than 12 ounces. These supersize Alcopops are a new effort of the alcohol industry targetting youth.
The UK-Government has taken a deadly decision by not introducing a new BAC standard of 0.05%. It will cost lives. A reduction could save 15 to 20% less fatal accidents.
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TOP NEWS
USA: Senate Decides On Maryland Alcohol Tax Bill – 30. März 2011
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — An increase in Maryland’s alcohol tax advanced in the Maryland Senate on Tuesday, with a significant portion of the first year’s proceeds set aside for Prince George’s County and Baltimore schools.
The Senate measure would raise Maryland’s sales tax on alcohol from 6 percent to 9 percent over three years by 1 percent a year. Fiscal analysts said they estimate that it would raise about $29 million in fiscal year 2012, $58 million the following year and $85 million in the third year. (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/30/11) wbaltv.com, 03/29/11
TOP NEWS: UK: Drink-Drive limit to remain 80mg – 22. März 2011
The legal drink-drive limit will remain at 80mg per 100ml of blood, the transport secretary Philip Hammond has announced. A Government press release said the focus would instead be on “improving enforcement and education to tackle the drink and drug drivers who put lives at risk.”
However the decision drew criticism after an independent report last year called for the legal limit to be reduced. In the report Sir Peter North proposed a reduced 50mg limit, arguing it would save lives and bring the level in line with most of Europe. … (Source: Alcohol Policies UK, 03/21/11) Comment: If there are not 15% to 20% less alcohol related accidents and deaths during the next year the government must revise its attitude immediately. Or it should resign because it had caused many deaths and injured people by listening to the alcohol industry instead of following the advice of public health specialists.
South Africa: State declares war on alcohol abuse – 12. März 2011
The government is waging war on the alarming increase in the abuse of alcohol and drugs, and has warned of stricter legislation – including raising the legal age for alcohol consumption from 18 to 21.
In a hard-hitting statement, Social Development Minister Bathabile Dlamini said yesterday that the devastating effects of alcohol abuse had spurred the government to “prioritise this as a matter of urgency”.
“Alcohol and substance abuse is destroying families and the fabric of society. The shocking reality of the situation has strengthened our resolve to tackle the problem head-on,” Dlamini told The Times. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/12/11) timeslive.co.za, 03/11/11 Comment: Good luck, my beloved South Africa. You have the political power to succeed. But do it without the alcohol industry! Take the WHO Global Alcohol Strategy.
‘No such thing as a safe level of alcohol consumption’ says Nutt – 10. März 2011
The outspoken addictions Professor David Nutt has written a controversial piece claiming ‘There is no such thing as a safe level of alcohol consumption’. Nutt asserts a number of factors to argue that the ‘myth of a safe level of drinking’ has no real evidence. These include that alcohol is toxin which kills cells, that a small minority of people may become addicted to alcohol at first drink, and that the claimed cardiovascular benefits of moderate consumption have not sufficient proof. (Source: Alcohol Policy UK, 03/10/11)
GLOBAL
USA: Petition Pabst: Stop Targeting Youth, Give Snoop the Boot – 29. März 2011
Sign the Petition to Tell Pabst Execs to Stop Targeting Youth with Supersized Alcopops.
Pabst Brewing Company is attempting to revive the Colt 45 brand name with a dangerous new supersized, high-alcohol alcopop called Blast. …Source: Marin Institute, 03/28/11)
USA: Alcohol board chairman’s relationship with lawyer getting close look – 29. März 2011
The relationship between a lawyer representing a D.C. liquor wholesale company and the chairman of the city’s alcohol control board is getting a close look by Mayor Vincent Gray’s office, a source close to that assessment told The Washington Examiner. (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/28/11) the Washington Examiner, 03/27/11
UK: Alcohol policy comment: determinants, influences and the media – 29. März 2011
James Nicholls, an alcohol policy and history researcher from Bath Spa University, has contributed the following guest post. It explores recent news and developments in the alcohol field within the context of policy making and journalism. (Source: Alcohol Policy UK, 03/28/11)
USA: MS students suspended for alcohol – 27. März 2011
SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – Five students from Kings Fork Middle School were suspended Friday and recommended for expulsion after officials say they violated the school system’s alcohol policy. The students involved were three 7th Graders and two 8th Graders.
According to a school spokesperson, the incident involving alcohol took place Friday morning as the students were riding on a school bus on their way to school. … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/26/11) fox43tv.com, 03/25/11
USA: Alcohol tax increase advances to full Senate – 25. März 2011
For the first time in more than four decades, a Maryland legislative committee has approved an alcohol tax increase.
The Senate Budget and Taxation Committee today advanced a plan to bump tax on alcohol from 6 to 9 percent over the next three years. Alcohol taxes would go up by one percentage point per year.
Budget Chairman Edward Kasemeyer noted the historic nature of the committee’s move, saying most Marylanders “probably wonder why it has taken so long.” … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/25/11) weblogs.baltimoresun.com, 03/24/11
UK: MP Calls For New Measures To Protect Children From Alcohol Advertising – 25. März 2011
Next week, Sarah Wollaston MP will put forward a private member’s bill urging the government to adopt a new approach to protect UK children from alcohol advertising.
In an editorial published on bmj.com today, Professor Gerard Hastings and Dr Nick Sheron set out why we urgently need to tackle the excessive drinking of our young people and their massive exposure to alcohol advertising.
The bill will call on the government to adapt French legislation … (Source: Medical News Today, 03/24/11)
USA: Alcohol Producers Pour Out Campaign Cash for Parties – 24. März 2011
Whether you prefer your wine red or white, your spirits on the rocks or your beer frosty cold, chances are your bartender is pouring a drink infused with politics.
Many of the most recognizable brands lining store shelves are made by companies that contribute heavily to federal-level politics, according to a Center for Responsive Politics analysis of campaign finance data. And many are ensuring the cup of only one party overfloweth. (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/23/11) opensecrets.org, 03/23/11 our Online-Comment: It is hard to believe that lawmakers may establish laws to the benefit of the public if they are paid like this by the alcohol industry. At least these figures are available. But who takes care?
USA: New Alcohol Tax Considered Compromise – 24. März 2011
Some Say New Tax Less Painful Than Dime-A-Drink Tax
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — A Senate committee has heard a bill that would phase in a special new tax on beer, wine and liquor over a three-year period.
The alcohol tax proposal is considered a compromise to the dime-a-drink proposal. Supporters said because it would be phased in, they think that it will be a less painful approach. … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/23/11) wbaltv.com, 03/23/11
UK: Budget 2011: alcohol duty escalator stays as pub trade speaks out – 24. März 2011
The 2011 budget today confirmed that the alcohol duty escalator will continue with alcohol taxed at 2% above the rate of inflation. The Treasury stated this would add four pence to the price of a pint of beer, 15 pence to the price of a bottle of wine, and 54 pence to the price of a bottle of spirits. … (Source: Alcohol Policy UK, 03/23/11)
USA: Vermont Introduces Bill to Ban Supersize Alcopops – 24. März 2011
In Vermont, Representatives Tom Stevens (D-Waterbury) and Diane Lanpher (D-Addison) introduced House Bill 260: Legislation that will ban the sale of flavored malt beverages in containers larger than 12 ounces. HB 260 comes on the heels of Marin Institute’s model bill to restrict supersized alcopops, Big Alcohol’s latest threat to public health. (Source: Marin Institute, 03/22/11) bill 260 (pdf)
USA: Cancerous Argument: Red Wine and Your Health – 24. März 2011
In complete disregard of the fact that alcohol is known to be the third leading cause of preventable death in America, the National Foundation for Cancer Research has decided to specifically promote the consumption of red wine, purportedly for its cancer-preventing properties. Yet even the Foundation acknowledges that the cancer-fighting benefits are not inherent to the alcohol itself, but to the antioxidants that can be found in a wide range of other foods. Since antioxidant sources are so prevalent and widespread, it boggles our mind that the National Foundation for Cancer Research specifically pick the one antioxidant source that is also linked to an increased risk of several cancers. (Source: Marin Institute, 03/22/11)
USA: Healdsburg OKs alcohol at beach event – 24. März 2011
The first Great Russian River Race will be wet in more ways than one, now that Healdsburg City Council members have overcome their qualms about allowing alcohol at the event.
The City Council Monday voted unanimously to let beer and wine be served at the May 7 after-race party, overcoming a decades-old prohibition on alcohol at Veterans Memorial Beach park. … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/23/11) healdsburg.towns.pressdemocrat.com, 03/22/11
EU: Zero Tolerance on Domestic Violence – 24. März 2011
Towards a Comprehensive EU-Wide Strategy
The Silken Berlaymont Hotel, Brussels, Tuesday 14th June 2011,
Event Details – Website – Register to Attend
USA: Groupon Faces Widespread Alcohol Sale Problems, Attorney Says – 22. März 2011
Groupon faces widespread problems related to its discount deals with restaurants and retailers who sell alcohol. According to an attorney who specializes in alcohol law, the Massachusetts crack-down of deals involving drinks is likely just the start. California, New York and at least 15 other states likely will find fault with the popular deals. … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/22/11) blogs.forbes.com, 03/21/11
GB: Church criticises the Government’s alcohol ‘responsibility deal’ – 22. März 2011
The Methodist Church has criticised the Government’s “responsibility deal” to tackle alcohol abuse, saying that it prioritises the drinks industry over the vulnerable.
Rachel Lampard, Public Issues Team Leader for the Methodist Church, said:“We are totally unconvinced that the Government’s proposed ‘responsibility deal’ on alcohol regulation will be effective in reducing the problem of harmful drinking.” … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/22/11) protestantnews.eu, 03/15/11 our Online-Comment: Thanks for this clear statement. I wished our churches would do the same to the Swiss Government. But they are afraid their members could dislike it.
Podcast – Worldwide alcohol trends – 22. März 2011
New and comprehensive study on the consumption of alcohol reveals worrying trends on alcohol use around the world. * Listen to this episode – duration 00:05:56 [mp3 3.5Mb] *
* Global status report on alcohol and health 2011 by the UN World Health Organization WHO (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/21/11)
A report card on the Australian government’s alcopops tax – 22. März 2011
Using taxes to curb drinking:
In 2008, the Australian government introduced an ‘alcopops tax’ on spirit-based ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages to reduce alcohol consumption and particularly binge drinking by young people.
Data regarding sales of alcoholic beverages in Australia from 2004 to 2009 were used to examine the possible effects of the alcopops tax. In addition, population data were used to calculate and examine per capita consumption…. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/21/11) Comment: This alcopop tax must have been far too small to have a real effect. In Switzerland the sales dropped by about 75%. (Here 3%)
USA: Voluntary Nutritional Labeling on Alcohol – 21. März 2011
Last month, I discussed the negative impacts that a nutritional label mandate would have on small producers of alcohol beverages, such as craft brewers. Another side of this issue is the negative impact that prohibiting nutritional labels has caused small and large alcohol beverage producers—as well as health-conscious consumers of adult beverages. (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/21/11) biggovernment.com, 03/20/11
USA: Maker of Four Loko Sued for Fraud Again – 19. März 2011
Another lawsuit has been filed against Phusion Projects, LLC, maker of Four Loko alcoholic beverages, Crain’s reported March 9. The new lawsuit, which is aiming for class-action status, was filed March 4 in the Southern District Court of California. It claims that Four Loko misled its customers about the potency of its caffeinated alcoholic beverages by using fruit flavors, colorful packaging, and clever shelf placement in stores to suggest they were similar to non-alcoholic beverages. Source: Join Together, 03/18/11)
USA, Maryland: New alcohol tax idea emerges – 18. März 2011
Lawmakers have been weighing whether to raise the tax on alcoholic beverages since the first day of this year’s legislative session. But the idea is getting a fresh look in recent weeks — with a twist.
Health advocates recently learned that DC imposes a “special sales tax” on alcohol, charging an extra 3-4 percent on top of the regular 6 percent sales tax rate. Maryland, they argue, should follow the District’s lead and develop its own special sales tax for alcohol. … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/18/11) weblogs.baltimoresun.com, 03/17/11 our Online-Comment: Alcohol taxes should be seen in relation to the damage and harm alcoholic beverages produce in society. Alcohol taxes should be high enough to reduce general consumption. This would reduce also the tribute we pay a life long without being asked for alcohol related social costs. The profit goes to the alcohol industry.
USA: Local stores sell alcohol to underage drinkers – 18. März 2011
Twelve York County convenience stores are no stranger to selling alcohol to underage drinkers; two Fort Mill and one Tega Cay convenience store also have allowed some underage drinkers to purchase alcohol, records show.
For those illegal sales, each of those stores failed recent compliance checks conducted by York County law enforcement. Topping the list with three violations is a Fort Mill convenience stop. …
(Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/17/11) heraldonline.com, 03/16/11
Georgia, USA: Senate Passes Sunday Alcohol Sales Bill – 17. März 2011
ATLANTA — The Georgia state senate narrowly passed a bill Wednesday that would allow local cities and counties to vote on Sunday alcohol sales.
After nearly four hours of debate and multiple amendments, senators passed the measure 32-22, three more votes than needed for passage. It was Crossover Day, the last day for the bill to pass in the Senate in order for it to stand a chance at becoming a law. The bill is now headed to the House of Representatives for a vote. (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/17/11) wsbtv.com, 03/17//11
USA: Alcohol has no place in St. Patrick’s Day Parade – 16. März 2011
Denver’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade last Saturday was very good, bringing a lot of families downtown to enjoy a cultural display and good family and community fun. I am a first-generation American and very proud of my Irish roots and their contribution to the educational and medical foundations in the USA….
I am very disappointed that open containers are allowed in the parade. Parades are family events. They should not be used for encouraging drinking and rowdy behavior, especially by the participants in the parade. I realize many spectators use this forum as an excuse to drink alcohol and act like fools, but at least the participants should not be allowed to exhibit such behavior. … ( Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/16/11) blogs.denverpost.com, 03/15/11
USA: Indiana Alcohol Board Wins Sales Permit Fight – 16. März 2011
Indiana liquor retailers have lost another round in their lawsuit against the state’s alcohol control board, Indystar.com reported March 5.
The Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers sued the state Alcohol and Tobacco Commission in January 2010 for granting more permits for selling beer than were allowed under state law. (Source: Join Together, 03/15/11)
UK: ‘Responsibility deal’ announced as health groups withdraw – 16. März 2011
The Government’s public health Responsibility Deal was announced today, but has been surrounded by controversy as health groups pulled out from the partnerships.
The ‘Responsibility Deal’ includes pledges on key areas of alcohol, food, behaviour change, physical activity and health at work. But this week 6 health groups involved in the alcohol deal pulled out, saying the pledges would not work and were being overly dictated by industry. Today further health groups including the British Heart Foundation also walked away from the deal. (Source: Alcohol Policy UK, 03/15/11) Comment: The health groups which pulled out now, knew from the beginning, that this cannot work. They showed good will but it is a waste of time and resources to plan prevention with the alcohol industry.
WHAT IS NOT ON THE BOTTLE (Lunchsemimar) – 15. März 2011
ALCOHOL LABELLING POLICIES TO PROTECT YOUNG PEOPLE
Place: European Parliament (Brussels)
Date: Thursday 17 March 2011
Time: 12h00 – 15h00
Room: JAN6Q2
56 Indian airline pilots fail alcohol tests: govt – 15. März 2011
Fifty-six pilots working for Indian airlines have failed alcohol tests in the last two years, according to a list issued by the civil aviation ministry.
Ten pilots were fired after they failed tests, including one who was found over the limit on two occasions, according to the list released by Aviation Minister Vayalar Ravi in parliament Thursday.
The fifty-six pilots worked for the state-owned national carrier Air India, as well as private airlines Jet Airways, Indigo, SpiceJet, GoAir, and Kingfisher. Twenty-three pilots from India’s top airline company Jet Airways failed their tests, but the airline did not sack any of them, putting them on suspension and subjecting them to a pay cut instead. … (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/14/11) google.com, 03/10/11
UK: Health Groups Accuse Government of Siding with Alcohol Industry – 14. März 2011
The government is receiving a lot of criticism from a number of different health groups based on their refusal to sign up for a “responsibility deal” regarding alcohol sales in England. The deal created by organizations like Alcohol Concern, British Liver Trust and the Royal College of Physicians is voluntary and encourages the drink industry to label the alcohol units on their beverages and to take on the problem of alcohol abuse. … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/14/11) topnews.us, 03/14/11
USA: Oklahoma Board of Tests for Alcohol and Drug Influence Launches New Website – 13. März 2011
Information about Oklahoma?s driving breath alcohol and ignition interlock devices just became easier to access with the launch of the Oklahoma Board of Tests for Alcohol and Drug Influence’s (BOT) new website at http://bot.ok.gov. The new website allows the agency to post announcements quickly, keeping Oklahomans informed and increasing transparency of information. (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/13/11) trading-house.net, 03/11/11
A: Alcohol tax increase bid flops – 13. März 2011
Alcoholic drinks sold in pubs and restaurants in Linz will not become more expensive due to higher taxes after such plans by the Social Democrats (SPÖ) were snubbed by political rivals.
The SPÖ department in the Upper Austrian city said today (Fri) the factions of People’s Party (ÖVP), the Freedom Party (FPÖ), the Alliance for the Future of Austria (BZÖ) and the Austrian Communist Party (KPÖ) rejected its draft bill. The Greens declared abstention from the vote, according to the SPÖ. … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/13/11) wienerzeitung.at, 03/11/11 Comment: As usual, the profits to the industry, the harm and social costs to the state and the people.
USA: N.M. Okays Beer Pong in Bars – 11. März 2011
New Mexico has ruled that beer pong can be played again in local bars as long as the games don’t involve drinking alcohol or gambling, the Portales News-Tribune reported Feb. 28.
“It’s against the law for [liquor] licensees to allow games or contests that involve drinking alcohol beverages or award alcohol beverages as prizes,” said Gary Tomada, who directs the state’s alcohol and gaming department, “and we can’t have any semblance of gambling. If those [rules] are observed … they can play all they want.” Source: Join Together, 03/10/11)
Talking Teen Drinking: MADD and ER Docs Release Handbook for Parents – 11. März 2011
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) says that 30 percent of U.S. eighth graders drink alcohol, and 20 percent binge drink, according to a March 4 story in HealthDay. In that light, it’s particularly chilling to learn (also from HealthDay) that federal statistics show that underage drinkers are responsible for about 546 visits to emergency rooms each day.
What’s a parent to do?
Talking with teens about alcohol and drinking can be difficult for parents — but emergency room doctors and MADD just made it a little easier.
The American College of Emergency Physicians(ACEP) teamed up with MADD to create and release a new, free handbook as part of MADD’s “Power of Parents, It’s Your Influence” campaign. (Source: Join Together, 03/10/11)
USA: Meetings set college alcohol policies – 11. März 2011
ll residential colleges held mandatory meetings on Monday night to discuss each college’s response to the recent campus-wide moratorium on hard alcohol and to inform students about the circumstances that led up to the administrative action.
Each college was given the freedom to specify its own enforcement policies, definition of a private party and other aspects of moratorium that were mentioned in the letter from Dean of Undergraduates John Hutchinson on Feb. 24. (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/11/11) media.www.ricethresher.org, 03/11/11
Russia: A Lesson in Drinking – 11. März 2011
For women, this weekend’s International Women’s Day holiday is supposed to be a time to receive gifts and affection from the men in their lives. For the country, it means a welcome three-day weekend. But for all too many people, the holiday also offers an excuse to drink.
The good news is that the national drinking problem isn’t quite as bad as many thought. The World Health Organization concluded in a report last month that Russia is apparently no longer the world leader in per capita alcohol consumption. In fact, at 15.7 liters of pure alcohol per capita, Russia is not even on the medal stand of the global drinking games, just beating out Ukraine …But do those numbers actually mean anything? How much do Russians really drink? … (Source: Harvard World Health News, 03/10/11) themoscowtimes.com, 03/05/11
EU: Alcohol and Health Forum – 10. März 2011
SCIENCE GROUP 8th Meeting, 21 March 2011, 11h00 – 17h00
Brussels, Froissart 101, room 02/169
AGENDA
7) Update on recent developments (Commission services)
8) Work towards formulating scientific advice on reducing the negative impact of harmful
and hazardous alcohol consumption on the workplace (EAHF Task request) …
USA: Alcohol Policy Information System Database Updated – 10. März 2011
The Alcohol Policy Information System (APIS), a project by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, recently announced its latest update of state-by-state alcohol policies. The update reports developments in 29 current APIS policy topics for the year 2009. You can visit the APIS website to obtain details on these and other important policy developments across the country. Many of these changes are consistent with the goals of reducing alcohol-related death and injury in the general population and reducing underage drinking and its consequences. (Source: Marin Institute, 03/09/11)
USA: Usher, Belvedere Vodka, and the Most Hypocritical Product (Red) Product Yet – 10. März 2011
In a stunning display of insensitivity and ignorance, Belvedere Vodka and singer Usher have joined with Product (Red) to launch a special edition bottle and give half its profits to “fight HIV/AIDS in Africa,” under the misleading tagline “Helps Save Lives.” Promoting and selling booze to fight HIV/AIDS?! There are just so many things wrong with this, we can hardly decide where to start. Let’s consider the facts that are missing from this campaign: … (Source: Marin Institute, 03/09/11)
USA: Rutgers Professor Counteracts Toxic Alcohol Advertising – 10. März 2011
In New York City, a professor of Human Ecology from Rutgers University is taking a giant step from documenting the urban advertising landscape toward changing it. In the process, she hopes to improve the health of neighborhoods impacted by blight such as outdoor alcohol advertising. Dr. Naa Oyo Kwate’s research focuses on mapping urban environments and their impact on health. … (Source: Marin Institute, 03/08/11) our Online-Comment: My compliments to that researcher. Usually scientists don’t care much what happens to their study results. But she feels responsible that there is progress.
Northern Ireland: Plans For Minimum Price For Alcohol Could Save Lives – 8. März 2011
Introducing a minimum price for alcohol in Northern Ireland is an important step in the prevention of suicide and self-harm, as well as addressing wider health and social issues the Royal College of Psychiatrists in Northern Ireland has said.
Dr Philip McGarry, Chair of the Royal College of Psychiatrists in Northern Ireland, welcomed the consultation into alcohol pricing launched today by Social Development Minister Alex Attwood and Health Minister Michael McGimpsey, but said the floor price must be set high enough to have a genuine impact on problem drinking. (Source: Medical News Today, 03/07/11)
Tanzania: Govt launches drive against alcohol abuse – 8. März 2011
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania yesterday launched a nationwide campaign to tackle excessive drinking.The government’s initiative against irresponsible drinking has the backing of local brewers and is supported by international organisations with the United States Agency for International Development (Usaid) being its major financier.
The campaign will mainly be conducted through radio programmes. The campaign, dubbed Chonde Chonde! Ulevi Noma! (Please, alcoholism is dangerous), is a six-month drive that will end in September this year.
“For example, people who drink excessively more often have unprotected sex than those who do not or those who drink responsibly. Tacaids (The Tanzania Commission for Aids) lists alcohol consumption as an important factor in HIV/Aids prevalence.”… (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/08/11) thecitizen.co.tz, 03/03/11
PL: Alcohol to vanish from petrol stations? – 8. März 2011
In an effort to reduce the number of drink-driving incidents on Polish roads, a bill forbidding the sale of alcohol at petrol stations has been proposed by a senatorial group from across the political spectrum.
Additional changes to the so-called sobriety bill also include a ban on beer advertisements before 11 pm on Polish television. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/08/11) thenews.pl, 03/04/11
Conflict over liquor sachets in Malawi – 8. März 2011
Malawi now experiences a conflict over liquor sachets. Government and NGOs versus alcohol producers. Health versus profits. Also other countries in Africa face problems with the small plastic bags with strong liquor.
A few years ago a variety of small plastic sachets with 40 % spirits were introduced to the markets place in a number of African countries. Now problems have become very visible from the sale and use of such alcoholic beverages, in particular among the youth and the poor. This has resulted in public outcry and political discussions in an attempt to do something to the problem….(Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/08/11) add-resources.org, 03/07/11
100 years women’s fight passed by alcohol industry unnoticed – 8. März 2011
Active criticizes alcohol industry’s distorting picture of women.
Andrea Lavesson, Active President, explains that “the alcohol industry objectifies girls and women in two ways: since in most countries the alcohol use of girls and women used to be lower than of men, especially girls and women have been identified as new market. Girls and women became the new target group for increasing profits. The second form of objectification can be seen in the commercials: women are displayed as sexual objects.”…(Source: Active press release, 03/08/11) Comment: Not to forget that is was the protest of women, the “Suffragettes”, against the alcohol industry, which brought in several countries the right of vote to women.
US-Lawmaker: Allow alcohol for troops under 21 – 6. März 2011
A Georgia lawmaker is mounting a new push to allow 18-year-old troops to drink alcohol on military bases. But Defense Secretary Robert Gates is skeptical. Rep. Jack Kingston, R-Ga., put Gates on the spot during a hearing Wednesday on Capitol Hill, asking about the logic of prohibiting 18 year olds from drinking. …
Gates, whose familiarity with underage drinking issues reaches back to his time as the president of Texas A&M University, was not enthusiastic. “One of the things that we are seeing as a result of repeated tours is not just an increase in suicides, but an increase in risky behavior, particularly by young men … so that would be a concern of mine,” Gates said. … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/05/11) armytimes.com, 03/04/11
NZ: Public urges stronger measures on alcohol reform – 5. März 2011
I am sitting on the Justice and Electoral Select Committee as we hear submissions on the Alcohol Reform Bill for two days in Auckland.
There have been so many powerful and moving submissions. Some brave individuals have shared their own stories of alcohol harm. Overwhelmingly submitters are urging that a decisive leadership role is taken in dealing with alcohol harm. Submitters illustrate time and again what research has shown and that is as a drug alcohol causes greater harm to others than to self. (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/04/11) blog.labour.org.nz, 03/04/11 our Online-Comment:
It’s really funny how many “experts” discuss this problem without knowing the facts. One of the included problems is that information is not coming to the public. In May 2010 the World Health Organization has …
USA: Health Care Advocates Make Case For Alcohol Tax Hike – 5. März 2011
Supporters Say It Could Raise Millions For Health Programs
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — A plan to increase the state alcohol tax by 10 cents a drink may be gaining momentum in Annapolis. Maryland has recently increased the gas tax, the tobacco tax and the sales tax, but the tax on alcohol hasn’t been changed in 38 years, thanks mostly to the state’s powerful alcohol lobby.
According to those who support increasing the alcohol tax this year, 10 cents gets more than one would think….(Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/03/11) wbaltv.com, 03/03/11 our Online Comment: When a tax rise on alcohol is in discussion we forget always that there is also the possibility of reducing the social costs and alcohol-related harm, depending on the amount of taxation. If the new tax brings a reduction in consumption this not only brings more income for the state but could compensate …
Health organizations warn for the smart and effective lobby of the alcohol industry – 5. März 2011
Alcohol industry resists legal restrictions.
The alcohol industry profits from governments with a policy that legally restricts them as minimal as possible. That is why the worldwide alcohol industry takes a stand against measures such as the raise of excise-duty, the introduction of minimum prizes for cheap booze, raising the minimum age for buying alcoholic beverages, restricting the number of outlet points, putting warning labels on products and restricting advertisement. It’s these measures that can achieve the reduction of alcohol use and the decline of damages caused by the use of alcohol. …
The seven messages of the industry that are illuminated through examples from various countries are: … (See our article on January 2nd 2011)
EU event: Zero Tolerance on Domestic Violence: – 4. März 2011
Towards a Comprehensive EU-Wide Strategy
The Silken Berlaymont Hotel, Brussels. Tuesday 14th June 2011
Event Details Website
In the European Union, domestic violence against women remains an alarming phenomenon, and the most consistent and pervasive human rights violation across the continent.
This timely International Symposium renews the debate on how to work towards an EU-wide strategy on domestic violence. It will provide a platform for the discussion of a better European regulatory framework aimed at strengthening the 3 P’s – prevention, protection and prosecution.
EU: Question to the Commission by Alyn Smith (Verts/ALE) – 4. März 2011
Europe is the heaviest-drinking region in the world — we drink, on average, 11 litres of pure alcohol each year. Alcohol costs our society an estimated EUR 125 billion every year in spending on such things as the treatment of diseases and policing and in terms of lost productivity, etc.
This being so, could the Commission please provide data that show how much of the European budget is currently spent on the promotion of alcoholic beverages?
Does the Commission intend to continue to spend these levels of funds on the promotion of alcohol?
Answer given by Mr Cioloș on behalf of the Commission: … (Source: Eurocare Newsletter January-February 2011)
ES: Parliament calls for more informative alcohol labels – 4. März 2011
Alcohol labels should warn of the risks associated with drinking. This is the position of the Senators and MPs that make up the mixed Parliamentary committee on Drugs, that last 24 February urged the Government to implement these and other measures to prevent that harm caused by alcohol.
The Committee adopted unanimously the non-legislative proposal by the Socialist Group where the national and regional authorities, as well as the stakeholders, are urged to take measures to prevent and combat the harmful use of alcohol, especially by young people….. (Source: Eurocare Newsletter January-February 2011)
EU: (CAP) Common Agricultural Policy and alcohol – 4. März 2011
In search for a Coherent Alcohol Policy in Common Agricultural Policy.
Under the current regulations alcohol production is eligible for EU funding and, as recently noted by the Commission, this is not likely to change.
The majority of the funding comes from Community policy on information measures on the Community system of wines with a protected designation of origin (PDO) or protected geographical indication (PGI). Ironically, the CAP budget also provides money for ‘information measure on responsible drinking and the damaging effect of dangerous alcohol consumption’. In the last three years approximately €12.7mln has been spent for these two ‘information measures’ strands[1].
Consequently, EU budget money (our money) is being given to the alcohol industry to tell us how dangerous it is to consume the product they sell us.
Eurocare has recently addressed this problem in its response to the Common Agriculture Policy consultation. … (Source: Eurocare Newsletter Januar-February 2011)
EU: The pros and cons of the alcohol consumption – 3. März 2011
Letter from MEP Alojz Peterle to his fellow MEPs about the pros and cons of the alcohol consumption
On Tuesday 7 December 2010, the MAC (MEPs Against Cancer) organized a round table discussion on the topic of Alcohol and Cancer. The outcome of this round table was clear: drinking alcohol can cause different types of cancer, such as cancer of the mouth, larynx, pharynx, oesophagus, breast, colorectum and liver.
In the discussion that followed, attention was also drawn to the potential beneficial effects of alcohol.
In an attempt to break down the misunderstandings about the effects of alcohol on health, the president of the MAC, Mr Alojz Peterle, has sent out a letter to his colleagues in the European Parliament. This letter aims to provide a balanced vision on the relationship between alcohol and health, based on the latest scientific insights. (Source: Eurocare Newsletter January-February 2011)
UK: New guidance for pub ID checks – 2. März 2011
The Home Office has released guidance to help pubs and doorstaff spot and deal with ID that’s used fraudulently to buy alcohol.
The 44-page guidance, accessible on-line, includes detailed advice on how to identify legitimate passports, driving licences and PASS (Proof of Age Standards Scheme) cards. It outlines some commonly-used counterfeit ID such as the “international driving permit” and “provisional motorcycle licence”. The guidance warns operators to be wary of the growing trend for youngsters to use genuine ID belonging to older siblings. (Source: Alcohol Policy UK, 03/01/11) morningadvertiser.co.uk, 02/24/11
UK: Beer Industry expects beer tax hikes – 2. März 2011
A report by economic experts Oxford Economics shows that 980,000 jobs in the UK depend on the beer and pub trade. The report was commissioned by the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), who in a press release said the figures will fuel concerns over plans for huge beer tax hikes in the Budget this month. BBPA Chief Executive Brigid Simmonds said: “These figures show how vital the beer and pub trade is to the UK economy, with huge numbers of jobs dependent on the sector.” Highlighting expected duty rises in the forthcoming budget, Simmonds called for a freeze in beer duty. Source: Alcohol Policy UK, 03/02/11) beerandpub.com, 02/16/11
N: Alcohol: the scourge of the North – 2. März 2011
Alcohol must be made less accessible and more expensive to minimize public health damage, according to Norwegian MP and former Minister of Health Dagfinn Høybråten, speaking at the Second Northern Dimension Parliamentary Forum in Tromsø on February 22nd. The Nordic countries set the agenda in the global fight against alcoholism, he claims.
Alcohol is the second biggest life style related killer in the developed world and we need to change that, Mr. Høybråten said. … (Source: Alcohol Reports, 02/28/11) norden.org, 02/23/11
NIrl: New Bill tackles under-age drinking – 2. März 2011
Pubs caught serving drink to under-age customers in Northern Ireland twice will be closed. A Bill has been passed by the Assembly to reduce alcohol consumption. The measures were included in the amended Licensing and Registration of Clubs Bill and are expected to be in place by September.
Pubs, clubs, hotels and off licences convicted of selling alcohol to minors will be awarded five or six penalty points – once they have accumulated 10 they will face a closure of anywhere from a week to three months. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/01/11) belfasttelegraph.co.uk, 02/22/11
NZ: Alcohol Should Be Hidden Like Dirty Movies – 2. März 2011
Displaying alcohol in supermarkets should be treated in the same way as dirty movies are displayed in a video store, the Alcohol Reform Bill select committee was told today. Alcohol Action said the proposals adapted by the Government from a Law Commission report into alcohol reform did not go far enough.
Alcohol should not easily accessible and should not be displayed at the front of stores or with other products such as fruit and vegetables, the group said today.
“Supermarkets are treating alcohol like it’s a commodity rather than a drug,” spokeswoman Professor Jennie Connor said. “It should be treated like dirty movies, they should be in one corner of the supermarket at the back.”…
The bill, drafted last August, would affect bar hours, off-licence trading, liquor advertising and the purchase age. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/01/11) voxy.co.nz, 02/24/11
Can: Price of alcohol sinks hopes for all-inclusive resorts – 2. März 2011
There’s a big snag with Ontario’s plan to make the province a hotbed for all-inclusive Caribbean-style vacations: booze prices, tour operators and resort owners say.
They’re pleased Premier Dalton McGuinty’s government, in a tough fight to win the Oct. 6 election, wants to loosen liquor laws allowing alcohol to be included in package deals with rooms and meals. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/01/11) thestar.com, 02/24/11 Comment: That’s not acting responsibly. The damage is exported.
NZ: Febfasters Reap The Benefits Of Going Alcohol-free – 1. März 2011
New Zealand’s first ever FebFast ends tomorrow, having raised thousands of dollars for youth charities and given participants a break from drinking alcohol. Nearly a thousand people have given up alcohol for all of February as part of the Drug Foundation’s FebFast fundraiser, and so far more than $75,000 has been raised.
Coordinator Catherine Milburn says people can continue to make donations via the FebFast website (www.febfast.org.nz) throughout March. “There’s still time to show your support.”
A number of well-known New Zealanders have also supported the event, including teams of Labour and … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 02/28/11) voxy.co.nz, 02/28/11 our online-comment: Congratulations for that splendid idea. I wished our politicians and media people would have the same courage. Maybe then they could better get involved into work for an effective alcohol policy.
NZ: Alcohol Report Indicates Brewing Troubles – 1. März 2011
As per the findings of the Victorian Alcohol Statistics Report, the number of alcohol-related violence and brawls has experienced a sharp rise over the period between 1999 and 2007. …
Now with the released results of the much-awaited report, experts are in quest to find the magic bullets to curb the menace of alcoholism.
Mary Wooldridge, the Minister for the State Mental Health and Community Services, asserted: “This is the most comprehensive, detailed analysis of the impact of alcohol across the state, it’s critical for developing solutions”. … (Source: Google Alcohol News, 02/28/11) topnews.net.nz, 02/28/11
RESEARCH
The effect of drink price and next-day responsibilities on college student drinking – 31. März 2011
A behavioral economic analysis.
More than 3/4 of U.S. college students report a heavy drinking episode (HDE; 5 (for men) and 4 (for women) drinks during an occasion) in the previous 90 days. This pattern of drinking is associated with various risks and social problems for both the heavy drinkers and the larger college community.
The results suggest that increasing drink prices and morning academic requirements may be useful in preventing heavy drinking among college students. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/30/11)
Alcohol disorder amongst forcibly displaced persons in northern Uganda – 27. März 2011
Alcohol use may be a coping mechanism for the stressors related to forced displacement. The aim of this study was to investigate levels and determinants of alcohol disorder amongst internally displaced persons (IDPs) in northern Uganda. A cross-sectional survey with 1206 adult IDPs was conducted in Gulu and Amuru districts…. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/25/11)
The range and magnitude of alcohol’s harm to others in Australia – 27. März 2011
Aims: This study aims to document the adverse effects of drinkers in Australia on people other than the drinker. … Conclusions: Substantial proportions of Australians are affected by other people’s drinking, including that of their families, friends, co-workers and strangers. These harms range in magnitude from noise and fear to physical abuse, sexual coercion and social isolation. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/26/11) onlinelibray.wiley.com
Binge Drinking — United States, 2009 – 27. März 2011
Excessive alcohol use is the third leading preventable cause of death in the United States and was responsible for approximately 79,000 deaths and 2.3 million years of potential life lost (YPLL) in the United States each year during 2001–2005.* Binge drinking, … was responsible for more than half of these deaths and for two thirds of YPLL . .. (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/26/11) National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC cdc.gov, 01/14/11
Why some children are harmed by mother’s alcohol, but others aren’t – 25. März 2011
Exposure to alcohol in the womb doesn’t affect all fetuses equally. Why does one woman who drinks alcohol during pregnancy give birth to a child with physical, behavioral or learning problems — known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder — while another woman who also drinks has a child without these problems? (Source: Google Alcohol News, 03/24/11) machineslikeus.com, 03/24/11 Medical News Today, 03/24/11
Scotland: Recent trends in alcohol sales revealed – 24. März 2011
A report published today by NHS Health Scotland, reveals that over the past 15 years annual alcohol sales in Scotland have increased by 11% – equivalent to over one litre of pure alcohol per adult per year. This was driven by a 53% increase in the amount of alcohol being sold through off-sales at a time when prices increased more slowly in off-sales (supermarkets and other licensed shops) (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/23/11)
EUCAM: Scientific publications on Alcohol Marketing – 24. März 2011
Research topics:
* Research on the Impact of Alcohol Marketing
* Research on Effectiveness Policies to Regulate Alcohol Marketing
* Research on Alcohol Marketing and the Alcohol Industry
* Research on the Impact of Counter-Advertising
(Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/23/11)
USA: Parity Has No Effect on Treatment Access, But Lowers Costs – 24. März 2011
Requiring parity for substance abuse disorders in health insurance plans results in identifying more people who need alcohol and drug treatment and lowers plan participants’ out-of-pocket costs — but has almost no effect on patients’ use of treatment or the quality of care, according to a March 18 press release in Psychiatric News. (Source: Join Together, 03/22/11)
USA: FTC to Review Alcohol Advertising Self-Regulation – 24. März 2011
Following the continued proliferation of alcohol advertising in social and traditional media outlets, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently announced plans to conduct another review of the effectiveness of the alcohol industry’s self-regulation of its own advertising campaigns. As noted in the Marin Institute’s 2008 report “Why Big Alcohol Can’t Police Itself: A Review of Self-Regulation in the Distilled Spirits Industry,” the industry’s voluntary guidelines fail to protect underage youth from exposure to alcohol advertising…. (Source: Marin Institute Newsletter, 03/23/11)
USA: Women Who Drank Alcohol During First Trimester Of Their Pregnancy – 23. März 2011
Adolescent Offspring Of Women Who Drank Alcohol During First Trimester Of Their Pregnancy Three Times As Likely To Develop Conduct Disorder.
Alcohol use during pregnancy is common and is associated with significant threats to the health and development of exposed offspring. Despite warnings from the Surgeon General to limit alcohol use if pregnant or contemplating pregnancy, a recent survey by the National Birth Defects Prevention Study found that nearly one-third of women drank alcohol at some time during their pregnancy, with one-fourth of the women surveyed having drunk during the first trimester. (Source: Medical News Today, 03/22/11)
USA: Searchable Online Database Shows Changes in State Alcohol Policy – 19. März 2011
Trying to keep up with alcohol policy changes in your state or to compare policy changes across multiple states through 2009? The Alcohol Policy Information System (APIS) is the resource for you.
Sponsored by The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) at the National Institutes of Health and developed by the The CDM Group, Inc., among others, APIS now includes 34 policy changes across 29 policy areas made in 2009. (Source: Join Together, 03/15/11)
Drinking at Work on the Rise in Silicon Valley – 19. März 2011
Doesn’t having a beer in the afternoon when you’re at work sound pretty cool? Sure it does — but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. Drinking at work is apparently getting more popular, especially in Silicon Valley workplaces, Bloomberg reported March 13. Companies like Crowdflower, Tello, Twitter, and Yelp all reported making alcohol in some form available to their employees on a fairly constant basis – in some cases, 24/7.
… (Source: Join Together, 03/18/11) Comment: A new study in Switzerland shows that the additional alcohol-related employee costs at workplaces are one Billion Swiss Francs a year.
Teenage girls outstrip boys on alcohol – study in Europe – 17. März 2011
An intriguing new study by European researchers has found that teen girls aged around 16 years are hitting the bottle more frequently than their male counterparts.
Researchers at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm found that 80 percent of all 15- to 16-year-olds drink regularly, usually downing at least five units at once, the Daily Mail reports.
Over the last decade, binge drinking habits have greatly increased among adolescent girls, and though they consume less than boys, they get drunk more often than boys do. … (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/14/11) themedguru.com, 03/10/11 Comment: The reason is the marketing of alcopops and that governments reacted too late.
Alcohol Marketing, Drunkenness, and Problem Drinking among Zambian Youth – 17. März 2011
Findings from the 2004 Global School-Based Student Health Survey.
This study examines the associations between alcohol marketing strategies, alcohol education including knowledge about dangers of alcohol and refusal of alcohol, and drinking prevalence, problem drinking, and drunkenness. …
These findings underscore the importance of restricting alcohol marketing practices as an important policy strategy for reducing alcohol use and its dire consequences among vulnerable youth. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/15/11)
USA: Is the “Prevention Paradox” Applicable to Alcohol Problems Across Hispanic National Groups? 17. März 2011
Background: The “prevention paradox,” a notion that most alcohol-related problems are generated by nonheavy drinkers, has significant relevance to public health policy and prevention efforts. The extent of the paradox has driven debate over the type of balance that should be struck between alcohol policies targeting a select group of high-risk drinkers versus more global approaches that target the population at-large. This paper examines the notion that most alcohol problems among 4 Hispanic national groups in the United States are attributable to moderate drinkers.
Conclusions: The prevention paradox holds when using volume-based risk groupings and disappears when using a binge-drinking risk grouping. Binge drinkers who drink moderately on an average account for more harms than those who drink heavily across all groups, with exception of Cuban Americans. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/16/11) onlinelibrary.wiley.com, 03/15/11
More Parental Monitoring By The Opposite-Gender Parent Can Indirectly Reduce Alcohol-Related Problems
17. März 2011
Young adults whose parents monitor their social interactions may be less likely to display impulsive behavior traits and to have alcohol-related problems, a new study suggests. The level of monitoring is linked to parenting style, and the link is stronger with the parent of the opposite gender.
This study is one of the first to explore the link between parenting style and parental monitoring, as well as to explore the monitoring style of each parent individually, says Julie A. Patock-Peckham, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychology & Neuroscience at Baylor University and one of the study authors. (Source: Medical News Today, 03/16/11)
UK: Wealthier Teens More Likely to Drink Alcohol – 16. März 2011
Researchers in the U.K have found that teens from more affluent families are more likely to drink than teens in poverty, although having a mother with a higher level of education is a protective factor for teens at any income level, Reuters reported March 14.
The longitudinal study, led by Roberto Melotti of the University of Bristol, surveyed the mothers of 5,837 children when they were pregnant, and followed up with surveys of the children at age thirteen about their use of alcohol and tobacco. (Source: Join Together, 03/15/11)
Drinking Associated With Increased Risk Of Death From Pancreatic Cancer – 15. März 2011
Heavy alcohol consumption, specifically three or more glasses of liquor a day, is associated with an increased risk of death from pancreatic cancer, according to a report in the March 14 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine,one of the JAMA/Archives journals. (Source: Medical News Today, 03/15/11) Comment: Three drinks a day is heavy drinking?
The bare truth about young Finnish women – 15. März 2011
Young women are consuming alcohol like never before, the tabloid Iltasanomat writes. “RECENT studies have shown that binge drinking particularly amongst young women has greatly increased in the last few years. … (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/14/11) helsinkitimes.fi, 03/10/11
India: Children as agents of change 15. März 2011
Children can make a real difference in their communities. A new manual on rights-based research from Concerned for Working Children (CWC) in Bangalore, India shows how children can be empowered to influence their community and also local alcohol policies. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/14/11) add-recources.org, 03/14/11
The Role of Alcohol and Substance Use in Risky Sexual Behavior Among Older Men – 15. März 2011
…Who Have Sex With Men: A Review and Critique of the Current Literature
HIV incidence is increasing among men who have sex with men (MSM) despite years of prevention education and intervention efforts. Whereas there has been considerable progress made in identifying risk factors among younger MSM, older MSM have been largely neglected. In particular, the role of alcohol and drug use in conjunction with sex has not been thoroughly studied in older MSM samples. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/14/11) springerlink.com, 03/10/11
Alcohol abstinence and drinking among African women – 11. März 2011
… data from the World Health Surveys.
Alcohol use is increasing among women in Africa, and comparable information about women’s current alcohol use is needed to inform national and international health policies relevant to the entire population. This study aimed to provide a comparative description of alcohol use among women across 20 African countries. …
Conclusions: A variety of drinking patterns are present among African women with lifetime abstention the most common. Countries with hazardous consumption patterns require serious attention to mitigate alcohol-related harm. … (Source: biomedcentral.com, 03/10/11) Comment: Now the alcohol industry knows about a wonderful field for marketing. (It knew before.)
Alcohol’s harm to others: reduced wellbeing and health status for those with heavy drinkers in their lives – 9. März 2011
Aims: The impact of alcohol on those other than the drinker is an under-researched area with important policy implications. This study is a first step in investigating relationships between exposure to heavy drinkers in respondent’s lives with measures of health status and wellbeing….
Conclusions: Cross-sectional data from a general population sample suggest that there is a relationship between exposure to heavy drinkers and reduced personal wellbeing and poorer health status. Exposure to heavy drinkers may have negative impacts for others. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/08/11) onlinelibrary.wiley.com, 03/07/11
USA: Activities Key to Cutting College Binge Drinking – 9. März 2011
It may seem like binge drinking is just a fact of college life, but a number of institutions of higher-education are proving otherwise. Survey data show notable drops in student binge drinking at several colleges and universities, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported Feb. 16. For example:
* Alcohol-related violations dropped 3.7 percent at North Dakota State University in Fargo, N.D. over two years.
* Between 2007 and 2009, “problem drinking” fell 12 percent at the University of Pittsburgh. … (Source: Join Together, 03/07/11) with our Online-Comment: It is always better to invest in prevention instead of paying for negative results. If the alcohol free offers are a success, other students will try too.
UK: Association Between Happy Hour And Pub Violence – 8. März 2011
A Cardiff University study has established a link between pub violence and happy hour-style drinking promotions.
The findings also show that pub staff themselves need to do more to stop heavily intoxicated customers from continuing to drink. (Source: Medical News Today, 03/07/11)
USA: Mandatory Alcohol Testing for Truck Drivers Has Paid Off – 8. März 2011
A study conducted by researchers at Columbia University found that mandatory alcohol testing of motor carrier drivers has resulted in a significant decrease in fatal crashes involving truck, bus and other commercial drivers and alcohol use. The study was published in the American Journal of Epidemiology. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/08/11) pr-usa.net, 03/08/11
The effects of a large reduction in alcohol prices on hospitalizations related to alcohol – 7. März 2011
a population-based natural experiment.
Aims: Finland experienced a large reduction in alcohol prices in 2004 due to in the lowering of alcohol taxes by about one-third and the abolition of duty-free allowances for travellers from the European Union. We examined the effects of these changes on alcohol-related hospitalizations. …
Conclusions: The results, obtained in a natural experimental setting when trends and seasonal variation had been taken into account, suggest that the reduction in alcohol prices led to increases in alcohol-related hospitalization in certain population groups, mainly among 50–69-year-olds, in Finland. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/05/11) onlinelibrary.wiley.com, 02/14/11
USA: Using ZIP code business patterns data to measure alcohol outlet density – 5. März 2011
Some states maintain high-quality alcohol outlet databases but quality varies by state, making comprehensive comparative analysis across US communities difficult. This study assesses the adequacy of using ZIP Code Business Patterns (ZIP-BP) data on establishments as estimates of the number of alcohol outlets by ZIP code. Specifically we compare ZIP-BP alcohol outlet counts with high-quality data from state and local records surrounding 44 college campus communities across 10 states plus the District of Columbia. Results show that a composite measure is strongly correlated (R = 0.89) with counts of alcohol outlets generated from official state records. … (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/05/11) sciencedirect.com, 03/01/11
UK: Tobacco and Alcohol: Learning From Each Other – 5. März 2011
Cigarette smoking is highly prevalent among people with alcohol use disorders. People who are dependent
on alcohol are three times more likely than those in the general population to be smokers, and people who are dependent on tobacco are four times more likely than the general population to be dependent on alcohol. Alcohol use problems are associated with higher levels of nicotine dependence and a lower likelihood of smoking cessation….12th and 13th October 2011, Parc Thistle Hotel, Cardiff, Wales. www.ashwales.co.uk
SMART: developing standarised drinking survey methodologies for Europe – 4. März 2011
The SMART project (Standardizing measurement of alcohol-related troubles) [1] has been looking into developing standardised methodologies to survey drinking behaviours as well as standarised cost-benefit analyses of alcohol policies.
The project has been funded under the EU Public Health Programme and it is to be seen in the context of An EU Strategy to support Member States in reducing alcohol related harm. …
[2] Ten countries participated representing various drinking cultures and different levels of political development ranging from Nordic Finland, new EU countries including the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary and Poland, Western European countries: Germany, UK and Ireland as well as Mediterranean Italy and Spain. (Source: Eurocare Newsletter January-February 2011)
Tourism, nightlife and violence: a cross cultural analysis and preventive recommendations (2011) – 4. März 2011
This new publication looks at the links between violence and tourism and the role played by the abusive consumption of alcohol and other drugs as well as by the context. Each chapter closes with a series of recommendations or descriptions of measures already in place or which could be introduced to deal with the problem at hand. (Source: Eurocare Newsletter January-February 2011)
UK: Alcohol-related liver disease in young people up 50% in a decade – 4. März 2011
The number of young people having to be treated in hospital for serious liver disease has risen by more than 50 per cent in the last decade, figures show. (Source: Eurocare Newsletter January-February 2011)
UK: Survey reveals cost of alcohol to society – 4. März 2011
Alcohol’s role in everything from injury and relationship breakdown to trouble with the police, emerges in a poll of 2,221 people commissioned by the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG).
According to the survey, some 11% of people polled have seen a friend or relative’s relationship end as a direct result of heavy drinking. One in five (21%) know someone who has driven while over the legal alcohol limit. And 51% know someone who has been a victim of alcohol-related violence, or has been attacked themselves.
The survey also found that 14% of children are being brought up in a family where at least one adult has a drink problem.
The YouGov poll paints a graphic picture of alcohol’s many negative consequences. The survey found that:… (Source: Eurocare Newsletter January-February 2011)
USA: Ignition interlocks cut drunken driving – 2. März 2011
Ignition devices that stop drivers from starting their vehicles if they are over the alcohol limit help prevent people convicted of driving under the influence from re-offending, according to a new study.
Re-arrest rates for alcohol-impaired driving decrease by 67 percent after the ignition interlocks are installed compared to drivers with suspended licenses, said the study by researchers at the Community Guide branch of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Around 200,000 vehicles in the United States are fitted with interlock devices that are used to prevent drunken driving by people convicted of such offenses. … (Source: Alcohol Reports, 02/28/11) reuters.com, 02/22/11
Major Triggers of Heart Attack: Alcohol, Coffee — and Sitting in Traffic – 2. März 2011
We all know that high cholesterol, obesity and high blood pressure can increase the risk of having a heart attack. On the behavioral side, triggers include getting angry, exerting yourself and feeling stressed. But none of these individual risk factors account for as many heart attacks as population-level influences like the quality of the air we breathe, a new review study finds.
To calculate how population-wide environmental factors stack up against more individual risks for heart attacks, researchers in Belgium and Switzerland extrapolated data from 36 studies that analyzed various triggers, including caffeine, physical exertion, heavy meals, anger and even cocaine use. The study authors then came up with a rough ranking of which factors contributed the most to heart attacks in a population. … (Source: Alcohol Reports, 02/28/11) healthland.time.com, 02/24/11 Comment: Air pollution has never been a confounding risk in alcohol research. An other factor to question the validity of positive health results.
Influence of the recall period on a beverage-specific weekly drinking measure for alcohol intake – 2. März 2011
Our knowledge of the association between alcohol intake and alcohol-related health outcomes depends, to a large extent, on the validity and reliability of self-reported alcohol intake. Weekly drinking measures are frequently used in epidemiological surveys, but it has been shown that respondents have problems in correctly reporting intake for a full week. The aim of this study is to investigate whether a beverage-specific question implies better recall and, thereby, eliminates or diminishes the previously reported association between the recall period and the self-reported weekly alcohol intake. Conclusions:
It seems problematic to recall alcohol intake even when the recall period is as short as 1 week. Weekly drinking measures should primarily be used when the main aim of the study is to assess the average volume of alcohol intake in a specific population. (Source: Alcohol Reports, 03/01/11) nature.com/ejcn, 02/16/11 Comment: Validity and reliability of alcohol research: One more big question.
UK: Purchasing patterns for low price off sales alcohol – 1. März 2011
…evidence from the Expenditure and Food Survey.
Ludbrook A., Health Economics Research Unit, University of Aberdeen, 2010.
Poor drinkers in the UK consume a relatively high proportion of their alcohol in the form of very cheap products, but wealthier drinkers also drink these; a moderately high minimum price would spread the impact. Findings informed a Home Office assessment of the likely impact of a rise in the price of alcohol in Britain. … (Source: Alcohol Policy UK, 02/28/11) findings.org.uk, 02/09/11
Alcoholism: Is It All in the Genes? – 1. März 2011
We know alcoholism runs in families — children with alcoholic parents have quadruple the risk of developing a drinking problem later in life than those without — but is the link genetic or the result of other influences?
According to a Feb. 8 Wall Street Journal article outlining the evidence for “alcoholism genes,” it is probably both. Researchers from the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism, a 22-year National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) investigation into the relationship between DNA and alcoholism, have put together compelling evidence from family studies indicating the problem has roots in nature versus nurture. … (Source: Join Together, 02/28/11)
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