Alcohol News - 1/2026

WHO - 1 in 3 injury deaths caused by alcohol: WHO/Europe reiterates the harms
During the holiday season, celebrations often involve increased alcohol consumption, which can raise the risk of injuries – including road injuries, falls, burns, poisonings and interpersonal violence.
https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/24-12-2025-1-in-3-injury-deaths-caused-by-alcohol--who-europe-reiterates-the-harms

Australian Broadcasting Corporation (Australia) - Australians are drinking less, but one cohort won't give up the booze
Health-conscious Australians might be thinking twice about having that second or third beer, but not everyone is getting the message when it comes to alcohol and risky drinking.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-12-27/australians-drinking-less-older-taking-bigger-health-risks/105371018

Gazeta Express (Switzerland) - Switzerland: Over 8 million hours of work absence are due to alcohol
The “Dry January” campaign has been launched, focusing on the workplace in 2026. “Alcohol consumption plays a role in one in six layoffs,” activists write. In Switzerland, “2 to 5% of workers and up to 10% of managers have a relationship with alcohol that is harmful to their health.
https://www.gazetaexpress.com/en/Switzerland%3A-Over-8-million-hours-of-work-absence-are-due-to-alcohol/

The Guardian (UK) - Offenders in England and Wales to have alcohol levels tracked over new year periood
Thousands of offenders in England and Wales will have their alcohol levels tracked over the new year festive period by electronic tags that monitor the wearer’s sweat.
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/dec/30/offenders-england-wales-to-alcohol-levels-tracked-over-new-year-period

The Wall Street Journal (Saudi Arabia) - A Booze Ban Since the ’50s Is Being Quietly Lifted in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is quietly permitting some residents to buy alcohol, breaking a longstanding taboo as the Islamic kingdom looks to expand its tourism sector, attract high-earning expatriates and modernize its conservative image.
https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/saudi-arabia-alcohol-ban-laws-d6f961de

The Romania Journal (Romania) - Excise Duties on Alcohol, Beer, Wine, and Fuel Rise Jan 1, 2026
According to the Fiscal Code, the excise duty level on beer, wine, alcohol and fuels will increase again from January 1, 2026, the second time in the last six months.
https://www.romaniajournal.ro/business/excise-duties-on-alcohol-beer-wine-and-fuel-rise-jan-1-2026/

Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency (Bulgaria) - Bulgaria Among World’s Heaviest Drinkers, New Data Reveal Alarming Alcohol Consumption Levels
Bulgaria remains among the countries with the highest levels of alcohol consumption in Europe and globally. According to World Health Organization data, the average Bulgarian aged over 15 consumes 11.2 litres of pure alcohol per year.
https://www.novinite.com/articles/236071/Bulgaria+Among+World%E2%80%99s+Heaviest+Drinkers%2C+New+Data+Reveal+Alarming+Alcohol+Consumption+Levels

The Senior - Old habits: is your 'unwinding' ritual silently damaging your health?
For many of us with a few grey hairs, an evening pint or relaxing glass of vino is a cherished ritual, but what's begun as a social pleasure has quietly drifted into a daily necessity (often behind closed doors).
https://www.thesenior.com.au/story/9139830/alcohol-and-ageing-health-risks-for-australians-over-50/

Paris Select Book (France) - New Year 2026: Paris bans the purchase and consumption of alcohol on December 31 in one arrondissement
As New Year’s Eve approaches, Paris is fine-tuning its measures for a festive and safe night out. The authorities have published a clear framework, with precise timetables and simple rules to apply.
https://www.parisselectbook.com/en/2025/12/31/new-year-2026-paris-bans-the-purchase-and-consumption-of-alcohol-on-december-31-in-one-arrondissement/

Inquirer.net (Japan) - 3 million in Japan may have alcohol use disorder, same level as 2018
Around 3.04 million people in Japan are believed to suffer from alcohol use disorder, the same level as in the previous study in 2018, highlighting the challenges in informing the public about the risks of drinking, a study showed Tuesday.
https://globalnation.inquirer.net/303724/3-million-in-japan-may-have-alcohol-use-disorder-same-level-as-2018

PhillyVoice - Dry January isn't just a month away from alcohol. It leads to long-term reductions in drinking
Abstaining from alcohol for short periods of time — like Dry January — leads to reduced drinking in the long run and various physical and psychological improvements, new research shows.
https://www.phillyvoice.com/dry-january-quit-drinking-alcohol-health-benefits-/

Forbes - What The Latest Research Tells Us About Alcohol And Health
For most Americans, alcohol has historically been perceived as providing health benefits when taken in moderation. However, scientific understanding of alcohol and how it can affect overall health has evolved significantly, particularly in the last several years.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/omerawan/2026/01/01/what-the-latest-research-tells-us-about-alcohol-and-health/

IAS Blog - December 2025: The Year in Review
Some people might think alcohol policy is dull. But after a year of political leaks and flip-flopping, industry interference and deception, and, of course, stellar public health research, how anyone could find it boring is a mystery.
https://www.ias.org.uk/alcohol_alert/december-2025-the-year-in-review/

NordAN (Finland) - Majority of Tipaton participants drink less alcohol in February as well
As many as 81 percent of those who took part in Tipaton January 2025 (an alcohol-free January) also drank less alcohol in February. “Tipaton seems to continue for many people. 69 percent continued Tipaton in February as well, and 12 percent said they have been drinking less since January,” says Maaret Väkinen, communications specialist at Ehkäisevä päihdetyö EHYT ry.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/majority-of-tipaton-participants-drink-less-alcohol-in-february-as-well

Alcohol News - 52/2025

The 2025 holiday season highlights a persistent tension: while the cultural ideal is "Christmas Peace" (Joulurauha/Julefred), the reality remains a peak period for alcohol-related harm, domestic instability, and public safety challenges.

The tradition of "Declaring Christmas Peace" remains the central civic ritual of the season, serving as the official demarcation line between the chaos of preparation (and the "Little Christmas" party season) and the enforced stillness of the holiday proper. In December 2025, this tradition was upheld with rigorous formality, serving as a stark counter-narrative to the police reports that would follow hours later.

In Finland, the City of Turku continued its role as the custodian of this tradition. On Christmas Eve, 2025, at exactly 12:00 noon, the Declaration of Christmas Peace was read at the Old Great Square. https://www.joulukaupunkiturku.fi/en/finlands-turku-declares-christmas-peace/  The text, a 19th-century transcription of a medieval statute, was delivered in both Finnish and Swedish. It serves as a performative speech act; by reading the words, the city officials effectively "create" the peace. The declaration admonishes citizens to behave "quietly and peacefully," warning that those who break the peace - historically through violence or drunken disorder - would face aggravating circumstances.

A parallel and equally significant observance occurred in Estonia, highlighting the shared Hanseatic and Swedish legal heritage of the region. On December 24, 2025, Christmas Peace was proclaimed in the capital, Tallinn, by Mayor Peeter Raudsepp from the window of the Town Hall. https://news.err.ee/1609894037/christmas-peace-to-be-declared-in-tallinn-and-tartu-on-wednesday  The lineage of this custom in Estonia is directly traced to the 17th-century reign of Queen Christina of Sweden, creating a historical bridge between the nations.

Sweden: Addressing High Intoxication Perceptions

• Systembolaget Survey: A new survey reveals that 79% of Swedes believe it is common for adults to drink to intoxication around children during Christmas. This highlights a significant gap between the "family holiday" ideal and reality. https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/ahead-of-christmas-8-in-10-see-intoxication-around-children  
• Nationwide Action: To counter this, the "Vit Jul" (White Christmas) campaign is hosting over 200 alcohol-free activities across Sweden, providing safe environments for youth when they need them most. https://drugnews.se/2025/12/01/200-vit-jul-aktiviteter-for-barn-och-unga-i-hela-sverige/  
• Local Initiatives: In Robertsfors, organizations like IOGT-NTO and the Scouts are actively creating "safe harbors" through sober events like holiday discos, emphasizing that Christmas should belong to the children. https://www.mellanbygden.nu/2025-12-18/de-jobbar-for-en-alkoholfri-jul-d1e66

Norway: Concerns in Homes and Workplaces

• Child Safety in Buskerud: An Ipsos survey for Av-og-til shows that one in three residents in Buskerud has witnessed intoxicated adults with children during the last two holiday seasons. https://www.eikernytt.no/2025/12/21/en-av-tre-i-buskerud-har-sett-berusede-voksne-sammen-med-barn-i-jula/  
• The Workplace Culture: A national survey on the traditional "julebord" (Christmas parties) found that 55% of Norwegians feel the alcohol level is too high, with 60% reporting they have seen colleagues or leaders over-intoxicated. https://www.dagsavisen.no/nyheter/derfor-skiller-julebordet-seg-ut/10097412

Estonia: Combating Risky Behavior

• "Black Christmas Cards": The Police and Border Guard Board (PPA) sent 880 black cards to the country's most dangerous repeat traffic offenders. This 15-year tradition aims to force reflection on the "mark" these drivers leave on society. https://news.err.ee/1609889512/estonia-s-police-send-black-christmas-cards-to-over-800-dangerous-drivers

"Gift the Child a Sober Christmas": National health and police officials are urging parents to prioritize stability, noting that domestic conflict calls involving children and alcohol-related EMO visits spike during the long holiday weekends. https://etakoda.ee/kained-joulud/index.html  

Finland: Breaking the Silence

• "Anna lapselle raitis joulu": The Raittiuden Ystävät campaign highlights that 1 in 10 Finnish children live in homes where alcohol use is excessive. The initiative focuses on the fact that even small changes in adult behavior can break a child’s sense of security. https://www.annalapselleraitisjoulu.fi/

Denmark: Support During Family Festivities

• The Helpline is Open: Alkohol & Samfund reports that one in ten Danes believes too much alcohol is consumed at family Christmas lunches. Their national helpline, Alkolinjen, remains open throughout the holidays to support the 26% of Danes who feel nervous about a relative’s drinking ruining the atmosphere. https://alkohologsamfund.dk/nyheder/alkolinjen-holder-aabent-i-juledagene-hver-tiende-synes-der-bliver-drukket-for-meget-til

Lithuania: Policy Progress and Individual Risks

• Memories vs. Reality: Child rights defenders are calling for a "sober balance," reminding parents that children’s holiday memories are shaped by the emotional safety adults provide. https://vaikoteises.lrv.lt/lt/naujienos/vaiko-teisiu-gynejai-primena-vaikams-kurkime-saugias-kaledas-fBZ/  
• Consumption Trends: While OECD 2025 data shows Lithuania's annual consumption has dropped to 11L per capita (a 32% decrease over a decade), health experts warn that holiday "binge" drinking remains a high-risk factor for poisoning and long-term health issues. https://aina.lt/skaudzios-alkoholio-vartojimo-pasekmes-per-sventes-nedarykite-siu-klaidu/

Alcohol News - 51/2025

NordAN (Sweden) - Ahead of Christmas: 8 in 10 see intoxication around children
Almost all Swedes believe it is common for adults to become intoxicated in the presence of children during Christmas. This is shown in Systembolaget’s latest survey conducted as part of the initiative Childhood without a hangover. Children’s Rights in Society (Bris) also reports that calls from children increase during the Christmas holidays.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/ahead-of-christmas-8-in-10-see-intoxication-around-children

Euractiv (EU) - EU states seek tighter limits on cross-border tobacco and alcohol Shopping
Several European countries have suggested amending EU legislation governing trade within the single market, introducing new limits on the amount of tobacco products individuals may import, Euractiv has learned. Finland, Estonia and Germany have reportedly advocated extending any amendments to Article 32 to include alcoholic beverages as well.
https://www.euractiv.com/news/countries-want-to-curb-cross-boarder-shopping-of-tobacco-alcohol/

Termedia (Poland) - Alcohol as a public health threat in Poland: rising consumption, weakening policy, and increasing mortality
According to recent Polish epidemiological data, alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for many diseases, responsible for tens of thousands of deaths annually, and a significant number of hospitalizations.
https://www.termedia.pl/Alcohol-as-a-public-health-threat-in-Poland-rising-consumption-weakening-policy-and-increasing-mortality,100,57221,1,1.html

www.heart.org - Before you toast, know the risks of ‘holiday heart syndrome’
“Holiday heart syndrome” sounds almost joyful, perhaps something that would afflict an excitable elf. But for people who mix alcohol with their seasonal celebrations, it’s a potentially serious problem.
https://www.heart.org/en/news/2025/12/15/before-you-toast-know-the-risks-of-holiday-heart-syndrome

News-Medical (USA) - Alcohol-related liver disease deaths surge with widening socioeconomic gaps
Researchers at Saint Louis University School of Medicine say deaths from alcohol-related liver disease have surged in recent years, and the increase is hitting people without a college degree the hardest.
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20251216/Alcohol-related-liver-disease-deaths-surge-with-widening-socioeconomic-gaps.aspx

Australian Broadcasting Corporation (Australia) - Long-running NT alcohol study recommends changes to costs and trading hours
A long-running joint study of the Northern Territory's alcohol-supply interventions has recommended changes to reduce the region's nation-leading rates of alcohol-related harm.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-12-19/alcohol-study-nt-reform-bottle-shop-costs-trading-hours-bdr/106153030

College of Policing - New research into reducing alcohol-related violence
The College of Policing has published a What Works rapid evidence assessment, reviewing 42 international studies to identify the most effective interventions for tackling alcohol-related violence in nightlife settings.
https://www.college.police.uk/article/new-research-reducing-alcohol-related-violence

PsyPost - Alcohol use linked to lower psychological resilience in soldiers, study finds
Regular consumption of alcohol is linked to reduced mental fortitude among soldiers. A recent analysis of Spanish Army personnel found that those who consume at least one alcoholic beverage daily exhibit lower levels of emotional intelligence and self-worth.
https://www.psypost.org/alcohol-use-linked-to-lower-psychological-resilience-in-soldiers-study-finds/

Futurity: Research News - Raising the drinking age could benefit teen mental health in Europe
A study based on policy changes in Spain shows that teenagers drink significantly less alcohol when the minimum legal drinking age is raised.
https://www.futurity.org/raising-legal-drinking-age-mental-health-3313502/

Belfast News Letter (Northern Ireland) - NCD Alliance Calls for Minimum Unit Pricing Legislation in Northern Ireland
Members of the Non-Communicable Disease Alliance NI, which is made up of health charities and organisations, have issued an urgent appeal to the Northern Ireland Executive to introduce legislation for Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) for alcohol, warning that continued delay and blockages within the Executive will result in mounting strain on our already over-stretched health services and deaths that could be avoided.
https://www.newsletter.co.uk/health/ncd-alliance-calls-for-minimum-unit-pricing-legislation-in-northern-ireland-5446189

PopNAD (Sweden) - How working from home affects alcohol use in Sweden
Remote work has increased significantly since the years before the pandemic, raising questions about its impact on employees’ drinking habits, as alcohol policies are harder to monitor outside the workplace.
https://nordicwelfare.org/popnad/en/artiklar/how-working-from-home-affects-alcohol-use-in-sweden/

WRS (Switzerland) - Parliament rejects WHO alcohol policy
The Upper House of Parliament, the Council of States has overwhelmingly rejected adopting an alcohol policy based on recommendations from the World Health Organisation.
https://www.worldradio.ch/news/bitesize-news/parliament-rejects-who-alcohol-policy/

IOCB Prague - Alcohol causes cancer. A study from IOCB Prague confirms damage to DNA and shows how cells defend against it
Alcohol consumption leads to the formation of a toxic compound called acetaldehyde, which damages DNA. A research team from IOCB Prague has now described in detail how cells repair this damaged genetic information.
https://www.uochb.cz/en/news/759/alcohol-causes-cancer-a-study-from-iocb-prague-confirms-damage-to-dna-and-shows-how-cells-defend-against-it

NordAN (Finland) - Dissertation study: a holistic view of addiction can reduce stigma around substance dependence
A new doctoral dissertation in philosophy by Piia Koivumäki (University of Jyväskylä) examines addiction through Lauri Rauhala’s philosophical view of the human being.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/dissertation-study-a-holistic-view-of-addiction-can-reduce-stigma-around-substance-dependence

Alcohol and Cancer - New research strengthens evidence linking alcohol use to cancer
As Americans gear up for the holiday season, new research offers a timely reminder to reflect on the long-term health effects of raising a celebratory glass – or two. Alcohol is known to increase the risk of several cancers even at moderate levels. Yet drinking remains widespread, and important questions persist about how both the frequency and amount of alcohol people consume shape their cancer risk.
https://www.alcoholandcancer.eu/post/new-research-strengthens-evidence-linking-alcohol-use-to-cancer

FASD News - 50/2025

Waatea News (New Zealand) - A Landmark Win for Disabled Learners as FASD Community Backs Human Rights Resolution
Advocacy groups and disabled learners are celebrating a significant human rights victory after overwhelming support was shown for a landmark resolution recognising the rights of people with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) within New Zealand’s education and disability frameworks.
https://waateanews.com/2025/12/13/a-landmark-win-for-disabled-learners-as-fasd-community-backs-human-rights-resolution/

The Cap Times - Schools need to recognize fetal alcohol challenges
A teacher watches a student struggle to follow yesterday’s lesson. The child can’t remember the sequence or connect cause to effect, so the teacher sees defiance and laziness.
https://captimes.com/opinion/guest-columns/opinion-schools-need-to-recognize-fetal-alcohol-challenges/article_d9160a4b-3452-400a-96c5-6c96e9966fb3.html

Quiver Quantitative (USA) - Murkowski and Klobuchar Announce Passage of FASD Respect Act to Support Affected Individuals
Senators Murkowski and Klobuchar celebrate the signing of the FASD Respect Act, enhancing support for individuals affected by FASD.
https://www.quiverquant.com/news/Press+Release%3A+Murkowski+and+Klobuchar+Announce+Passage+of+FASD+Respect+Act+to+Support+Affected+Individuals

The Conversation (South Africa) - South Africa needs to rethink how it measures intellectual and developmental disabilities – what’s lacking
The effective planning and delivery of services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in South Africa is severely constrained by the lack of reliable data.
https://theconversation.com/south-africa-needs-to-rethink-how-it-measures-intellectual-and-developmental-disabilities-whats-lacking-268497

Citybuzz (USA) - Texas Tech Student Receives FASD Scholarship, Highlights Need for Better Understanding in Social Work
Amelia Hernandez, a junior at Texas Tech University majoring in Social Work, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Scholarship.
https://www.citybuzz.co/2025/12/12/texas-tech-student-receives-fasd-scholarship-highlights-need-for-better-understanding-in-social-work/

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (Australia) - Australia's mothers and babies: Alcohol consumption during pregnancy
The consumption of alcohol is widespread within Australia and entwined with many social and cultural activities. Alcohol consumption in pregnancy can lead to poorer perinatal outcomes including low birthweight, being small for gestational age, pre-term birth and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) (NHMRC 2020).
https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/mothers-babies/australias-mothers-babies/contents/antenatal-period/alcohol

National Organisation for FASD (UK) - National FASD response to BBC report on adoption breakdown and FASD
Today’s BBC reports on adoption breakdown shines a light on the need for better information and support for families supporting children with complex needs, including FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) as mentioned in the report.
https://nationalfasd.org.uk/response_to_bbc_report_adoption_breakdown_fasd/

NOFAS Policy Center (USA) - FASD Respect Act Signed into Law, Delivering Support to Individuals with FASD
Thanks to the advocacy of families across the country, the FASD Respect Act has been signed into law, following passage by the U.S. Congress as part of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025 (HR.2483).
https://nofaspolicycenter.org/fasd-respect-act-signed-into-law-delivering-support-to-individuals-with-fasd/

FASD-CAN (New Zealand) - Alcohol and Mental Health Sector Consensus Statement
In May 2025, over 100 stakeholders from the sector came together at an Alcohol and Mental Health Symposium hosted by our friends at Alcohol Healthwatch. The ‘Consensus Statement’ resulting from the symposium has recently been released.
https://www.fasd-can.org.nz/alcohol_and_mental_health_sector_consensus_statement

NOFASD Australia - FASD Advocate Megan Brown wins Human Rights Award
NOFASD is delighted to congratulate Megan Brown, a member of our Lived Experience Advisory Group, who was announced at a ceremony in Darwin, as the recipient of an award in the prestigious NT Human Rights Awards.
https://www.nofasd.org.au/blog/fasd-advocate-megan-brown-wins-human-rights-award/

 

VIDEOS
ZERO TO THREE - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Minnesota’s Work on Assessment, Treatment, and Building a Workforce
ZERO TO THREE’s Financing Policy Project brings together nationally recognized experts to explore Minnesota’s innovative work to better identify and support young children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enXcAVwdEXM

FASDSUCCESS - Why Progress in FASD Starts with One Better Day
In this clip from Episode 179 of The FASD Success Show, Melissa Dobson shares the advice she gives to parents who feel like they’ll never make it through another year, week, or even day.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGp_AOLaBzM

FASDSUCCESS - Dr. Catherine Lebel on Brain Growth, Hope & Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Research
In this special episode, Jeff Noble sits down with Dr. Catherine Lebel, Canada’s leading researcher in FASD brain imaging and Director of the Developmental Neuroimaging Lab at the University of Calgary.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PuH88ma54Yg

FASD United (formerly NOFAS) - FASD United - November 2025 Policy Forum
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BM8q6C2h5_8

Patricia Kasper, Your FASD Coach - The Invisible Struggle Addressing FASD in Child Welfare, with Dr. William Curran
In this compelling episode of Living with FASD, host Patti Kasper engages with Dr. William Curran, a passionate advocate and researcher in the field of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Dr. Curran shares his unique journey into the world of FASD, revealing the pivotal moments that shaped his understanding of prenatal alcohol exposure and its profound impacts on child welfare.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wl7c_YifT2I

FASD Hub Scotland and FASD Hub UK - Raising Kids and Teens with FASD: Advice and Strategies to Help Your Family Thrive with Barb Clark
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLY_FdqdV8g

PCA Families - Practical Strategies for FASD
FASD Essentials part II: Practical Strategies for daily life presented by Prue Walker
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWcBXtrVQuY

FASDSUCCESS - Turning Sh*% Into Rocket Fuel: Advocacy, Human Rights, and Real-Life Wins with Melissa Dobson
What if the things that keep knocking you down — the school meetings, the misunderstandings, the sleepless nights weren’t signs you’re failing, but proof you’re fighting for your family in systems that weren’t built for them?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ewds-c_g4A0

Radio Kraków - FASD doesn't go away with age. About children and adults without support
In this episode, we discuss why diagnosing FASD is so difficult—in both children and adults. What does the diagnostic process look like in Poland? What challenges do parents face (emotion regulation, difficulties at school, impulsivity)? And what happens when FASD remains undiagnosed until adulthood—impacting relationships, work, independence, and mental health?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooKKpAD1co0

 

RESEARCH
Health & Justice - A content analysis of caregiver perspectives on strengths and protective factors in youth with FASD and criminal legal system involvement
Findings contribute to a shared understanding of factors that promote overall wellbeing for youth with FASD and CLS involvement from a caregiver perspective.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40352-025-00371-3

IDEAS - Prenatal Conditions and Midlife Mental Health: Evidence from an Alcohol Policy Experiment
We estimate the long-term mental health impact of an alcohol policy experiment on individuals exposed to the policy in utero. The policy lasted for 8.5 months and significantly expanded access to alcohol, especially for those under age 21.
https://ideas.repec.org/p/hhs/vxesta/2025_002.html

Child & Family Social Work - The Lived Experiences of Adoptive and Foster Parents of Children With Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD): A Systematic Review of Parental Stress, Social Networks and Social Support
This review explores the stress and social environments (social networks, social capital and social support) of foster and adoptive parents of children with FASD.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/cfs.70096

Alcohol: Clinical and Experimental Research - Regional cerebellum volume anomalies and associated cognitive function in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
A novel MRI method to evaluate cerebellum morphology in children with FASD suggests that PAE is associated with cerebellum anomalies in a regionally specific manner. The data also suggest that structural anomalies of the cerebellum may have functional consequences for important cognitive skills in children with FASD.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/acer.70207

Drug and Alcohol Review - Application of a Minimum Prenatal Alcohol Exposure Threshold for Diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: A Retrospective Chart Review
Concerns have been raised that introducing a minimum PAE threshold could reduce FASD diagnoses. However, this study shows that applying the 2025 criteria retrospectively did not alter diagnostic outcomes for this specific cohort.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dar.70082

British Journal of General Practice - Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD): how primary care can make a difference
Around 4% of the UK population are living with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) because of prenatal alcohol exposure. For a typical GP practice of 10 000 patients this means at least 400 people with FASD per practice.
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Cheryl-Mcquire/publication/398079262_Fetal_alcohol_spectrum_disorder_FASD_how_primary_care_can_make_a_difference/links/692ecea918a6405a30fa7678/Fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorder-FASD-how-primary-care-can-make-a-difference.pdf

Frontiers in Neuroscience - Differentiating Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder from other neurodevelopmental disorders: neurocognitive and socio-emotional evidence
Findings support the presence of a distinctive neurocognitive profile in FASD characterized by generalized cognitive deficits and domain-specific impairments (particularly in attention, memory, and executive functions).
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2025.1716494/full

Cornell University - Prenatal alcohol exposure and child cognition: semi-continuous exposures, causal inference and evidence synthesis
We address the challenge of causal inference status and the dose-response effects with a semi-continuous exposure. A two-stage approach is proposed using estimating equation for multiple outcomes with large sample properties derived for the resulting estimators.
https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.09237

bioRxiv - ACSS2 mediates prenatal alcohol exposure-related morphological and behavioral phenotypes
The metabolic enzyme Acetyl-CoA Synthetase 2 (ACSS2) recently emerged as an unexpected regulator of molecular and behavioral changes associated with alcohol use.
https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.11.26.690774v1.abstract

Children and Youth Services Review - Leveraging court appointed special advocates to improve outcomes for children involved in the child welfare system with prenatal alcohol exposure
This study is the first step in harnessing CASAs’ potential to address systemic child welfare challenges for children with PAE and has broader implications for CASAs’ potential in addressing multiple facets of child welfare reform.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0190740925005778

 

IN OTHER LANGUAGES
Suchttherapie (Germany) - E-Learning für Fachkräfte zur Förderung der Alkoholabstinenz während der Schwangerschaft: Konzeption, Umsetzung und erste Erfahrungen
Das E-Learning wurde insgesamt gut angenommen und bewertet. Herausforderungen zeigen sich durch die heterogene Zielgruppe, so dass eine stärkere Anpassung an die unterschiedlichen Arbeitskontexte sinnvoll wäre.
https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/a-2557-5947

Uniwersytet Papieski Jana Pawła II w Krakowie (Poland) - Problem braku systemowej pomocy dla dzieci z Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorde (FASD) i ich rodzin w Polsce
W rozdziale Doroty Kumorek omawiane są konsekwencje prenatalnej ekspozycji na alkohol, prowadzące do powstania Spektrum Płodowych Zaburzeń Alkoholowych (FASD).
https://monografie.upjp2.edu.pl/wn/catalog/book/178/chapter/829

Suomen Uutiset (Finland) - Antikainen: FASD-tutkimus saa rahoitusta
Valtiovarainvaliokunta sai valmiiksi mietinnön hallituksen esitykseen vuoden 2026 talousarviosta. Mietinnössä valiokunta päätti myös niin sanottujen joululahjarahojen kohdentamisesta ensi vuodelle.
https://www.suomenuutiset.fi/antikainen-fasd-tutkimus-saa-rahoitusta/

NDR (Germany) - "Hand in Hand": Alkohol in der Schwangerschaft - Noahs Leben mit FASD
Der dreijährige Noah hatte mehrere Promille Alkohol im Blut, als er zur Welt kam. Er ist körperlich und geistig geschädigt, sein junges Leben stark beeinträchtigt. Zusammen mit seinen Pflegeeltern hilft ihm der Mirower Verein "Querleben".
https://www.ndr.de/hand_in_hand_fuer_norddeutschland/hand-in-hand-alkohol-in-der-schwangerschaft-noahs-leben-mit-fasd,fasd-112.html

Alcohol News - 50/2025

GOV.UK (UK) - Five festive mistakes you didn’t know you were making: MHRA urges the public to be merry, not risky – don’t mix medicines with alcohol
As festive celebrations get underway, many people reach for both seasonal drinks and common winter remedies – a combination that can lead to dangerous and unexpected effects.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/five-festive-mistakes-you-didnt-know-you-were-making-mhra-urges-the-public-to-be-merry-not-risky-dont-mix-medicines-with-alcohol

ERR (Estonia) - Minstry abandons plans to permit 16-year-olds in service jobs to sell alcohol
The Ministry of Economic Affairs has abandoned plans to amend the Alcohol Act so that 16-year-olds would be able to work in jobs related to the production or sale of alcohol. Plans to allow employers to hire 13-year-olds to collect empty alcohol glasses have also been scrapped.
https://news.err.ee/1609883207/minstry-abandons-plans-to-permit-16-year-olds-in-service-jobs-to-sell-alcohol

The Conversation (USA) - Exposure to neighborhood violence leads some Denver teens to use tobacco and alcohol earlier, new study shows
High levels of neighborhood violence increase the risk of Latino and African American teens in Denver starting to use alcohol and tobacco, according to our recent study.
https://theconversation.com/exposure-to-neighborhood-violence-leads-some-denver-teens-to-use-tobacco-and-alcohol-earlier-new-study-shows-270412

News-Medical - Frequency and quantity of alcohol consumption influence cancer risk
As Americans gear up for the holiday season, new research offers a timely reminder to reflect on the long-term health effects of raising a celebratory glass – or two. Alcohol is known to increase the risk of several cancers even at moderate levels.
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20251211/Frequency-and-quantity-of-alcohol-consumption-influence-cancer-risk.aspx

Public Health Communication Centre (New Zealand) - Seasonal rises in alcohol-related harm and violence against women
The summer holidays should be a time for rest, celebration, and connection. But every year, increased alcohol consumption contributes to spikes in violence overwhelmingly inflicted by men against women, children, and young people.
https://www.phcc.org.nz/briefing/seasonal-rises-alcohol-related-harm-and-violence-against-women

belganewsagency.eu (Belgium) - Antwerp hospitals admit nearly 150 young people annually with acute alcohol intoxication
Nearly 150 young people end up in Antwerp’s emergency departments each year with acute alcohol intoxication, according to figures released on Thursday from a doctoral study at the University of Antwerp.
https://www.belganewsagency.eu/antwerp-hospitals-admit-nearly-150-young-people-annually-with-acute-alcohol-intoxication

Inside Higher Ed - Student Drinking Habits Informed by Parent Attitudes
Recent research from Washington State University finds that students who binge drink are more likely to be involved in Greek life or to have grown up with parents who were permissive about alcohol.
https://www.insidehighered.com/news/student-success/health-wellness/2025/12/12/study-student-alcohol-habits-informed-parent

PsyPost - Alcohol use disorder triggers a distinct immune response linked to neurodegeneration
New research published in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity provides evidence that alcohol use disorder triggers a distinct type of immune response in the brain. The findings suggest that excessive alcohol consumption shifts the brain’s immune cells into a reactive state that ultimately damages neurons.
https://www.psypost.org/alcohol-use-disorder-triggers-a-distinct-immune-response-linked-to-neurodegeneration/

ScienceDaily - Even moderate drinking carries a bigger cancer risk than you think
Alcohol’s cancer risk is shaped by a powerful mix of biology, behavior, and social factors—often in ways people don’t expect.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251211100612.htm

NPR - Does one drink make you dizzy? Why alcohol hits us harder as we age
Once upon a time, a drink or two at a holiday party went down the hatch with no problems. Now, it's a recipe for misery the next morning. Sound familiar? Dr. Monica Christmas of the University of Chicago Medicine says it's a common lament as people enter middle age.
https://www.npr.org/2025/12/08/nx-s1-5610478/alcohol-age-drink

Alcohol Awareness (Norway) - Do you see the elephant in the room? Do not ignore it
Many families enjoy a drink or two during Christmas, whether it is a beer while cooking, a glass of wine during gifts or an aquavit after dinner. For most adults this feels completely normal. The problem appears when drinking leads to small but noticeable changes in behaviour.
https://alcoholcampaign.org/2025/12/10/do-you-see-the-elephant-in-the-room-do-not-ignore-it/

Alcohol News - 49/2025

La Trobe University (Australia) - Report reveals scale of alcohol’s harm to others
Alcohol’s Harm to Others in Australia: Patterns, Costs, Disparities and Precipitants was compiled over six years and is the most comprehensive analysis to date of harm to people beyond the consumer.
https://www.latrobe.edu.au/news/articles/2025/release/report-reveals-scale-of-alcohols-harm-to-others

Euractiv (EU) - ‘Reduced-alcohol’ wine labels to soon appear on EU shelves
The European Parliament and Council reached an agreement on Thursday on new measures to support the struggling wine sector, including a rebranding push for ‘de-alcoholised’ wines with clearer labels.
https://www.euractiv.com/news/reduced-alcohol-wine-labels-to-soon-appear-on-eu-shelves/

News-Medical - Clearer guidance needed for low- and no-alcohol drinks in pregnancy
A new UK study reveals that alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks are now a go-to choice for pregnant women seeking safer social options. However, many remain uncertain about how safe they actually are, as guidance from healthcare professionals is still inconsistent.
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20251204/Clearer-guidance-needed-for-low-and-no-alcohol-drinks-in-pregnancy.aspx

LSM (Latvia) - Alcohol, tobacco and energy drinks to become more expensive in Latvia
Latvia's parliament, the Saeima, on Thursday, December 4th, supported amendments to the Excise Tax Law as part of its budget deliberations which will make alcoholic drinks more expensive in 2026.
https://eng.lsm.lv/article/culture/food-drink/04.12.2025-alcohol-tobacco-and-energy-drinks-to-become-more-expensive-in-latvia.a625013/

Public Health Communication Centre - Reconsidering our low-risk alcohol advice: The dark influence of the alcohol Industry
Growing expert consensus confirms there is no safe level of alcohol use for health. Large-scale studies now show that alcohol use increases the risk of many chronic diseases in a clear dose–response pattern, even at low levels of consumption.
https://www.phcc.org.nz/briefing/reconsidering-our-low-risk-alcohol-advice-dark-influence-alcohol-industry

News-Medical - 'Dry January' can lead to meaningful physical and psychological improvements
With the new year on the horizon and resolutions brewing, more people are saying cheers to a booze-free January, a choice that might come with some real health benefits and, ultimately, help some people cut back for good.
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20251203/Dry-January-can-lead-to-meaningful-physical-and-psychological-improvements.aspx

Medpage Today - Alcohol Use, Lifestyle Factors Shape Breast Cancer Risk
In this exclusive video ahead of the upcoming San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS), Seema Khan, MD, of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, previews her session on alcohol use, metabolism, and lifestyle factors in breast cancer risk and recurrence, and outlines what clinicians can expect from the featured speakers.
https://www.medpagetoday.com/meetingcoverage/sabcs-vp-earlybrca/118822

Reuters (USA) - Are Americans drinking less? New data says yes, but not by much
Americans say they are drinking less alcohol than ever before. But new data shows the number of drinks U.S. adults have per week has in fact not changed by much for decades.
https://www.reuters.com/world/us/are-americans-drinking-less-new-data-says-yes-not-by-much-2025-12-04/

EASL - On behalf of the European Health Alliance on Alcohol (EHHA), the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) welcomes the European Parliament’s decision to safeguard consumers by endorsing clear and accurate “reduced-alcohol” labelling
On behalf of the European Health Alliance on Alcohol (EHHA), the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) welcomes the European Parliament’s decision to safeguard consumers by endorsing clear and accurate “reduced-alcohol” labelling.
https://easl.eu/news/easl-welcomes-european-parliaments-decision-to-safeguard-consumers/

IAS Blog (UK) - Alcohol deaths fall in England for first time since pandemic
Alcohol-specific and -related deaths have fallen in England for the first time since huge rises after the pandemic.
https://www.ias.org.uk/news/alcohol-deaths-fall-in-england-for-first-time-since-pandemic/

University of Sheffield - Advancing alcohol policy modelling by integrating alcohol dependence
When it comes to understanding how alcohol policies affect health and social outcomes in the population, models can be powerful tools. They help us predict how changes in policy, like pricing or treatment for alcohol dependence, might influence alcohol consumption, health outcomes, and social harms.
https://sarg-sheffield.ac.uk/blog/advancing-alcohol-policy-modelling-by-integrating-alcohol-dependence/

NordAN - New Nordic health report shows worsening diets, rising overweight and persistent inequalities
A new edition of the Nordic Monitoring report, NORMO 2025, paints a troubling picture of health behaviours across the Nordic region. The data, released this week by the Nordic Council of Ministers, shows that people in the Nordic countries are eating more unhealthy foods, moving less, and experiencing record levels of overweight.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/new-nordic-health-report-shows-worsening-diets-rising-overweight-and-persistent-inequalities

Åbo Akademi University (Finland) - Persistent gaps in mental health and alcohol use between sexual minorities and heterosexuals
Previous research has repeatedly shown that sexual minority individuals report worse mental health than heterosexual individuals. These differences are, for example, observable so that sexual minority individuals report more symptoms of depression and anxiety, consume more alcohol, and experience more sexuality-related distress.
https://www.abo.fi/en/news/persistent-gaps-in-mental-health-and-alcohol-use-between-sexual-minorities-and-heterosexuals/

NordAN (Finland) - Sports Mehiläinen study: One in four athletes use substances to relax, are coaches and athletes living in different realities when it comes to substance use?
A study conducted by Sports Mehiläinen* shows that Finnish athletes use substances to relax and manage stress. The findings suggest that sports clubs and coaches are not well equipped to identify or intervene in substance use.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/sports-mehil%C3%A4inen-study-one-in-four-athletes-use-substances-to-relax-are-coaches-and-athletes-livi

NordAN (Denmark) - Alcohol makes brain hemorrhages strike younger and harder
PhD student from Aarhus is behind internationally noted research showing that three daily drinks significantly increase the risk of larger and more severe brain hemorrhages.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/alcohol-makes-brain-hemorrhages-strike-younger-and-harder

Alcohol News - 48/2025

The Conversation - Men’s drinking harms women and children, and the impact is worst in poorer countries
Drinking alcohol is known to be harmful to people’s health. It’s also known to be harmful in other ways.
https://theconversation.com/mens-drinking-harms-women-and-children-and-the-impact-is-worst-in-poorer-countries-269618

ABC News (Australia) - Calls for states to change alcohol laws ahead of women’s ministers meeting
States and territories must answer for being too slow to amend alcohol regulations at today's women's ministers meeting, family and sexual violence prevention advocates say.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-11-28/alcohol-delivery-violence-against-women-children-ministers/106075170

The Conversation - 8 ways to drink less during the silly season
December is a perfect storm for anyone trying to cut back on drinking. Between end-of-year deadlines, work parties, family gatherings and school events, alcohol is suddenly everywhere.
https://theconversation.com/8-ways-to-drink-less-during-the-silly-season-270298

Radio Prague International (Czechia) - Czechia rolls out new screening to tackle rising alcohol and addiction risks
Czechia consistently ranks among the heaviest-drinking countries in Europe. A new addictology screening program aims to identify risky alcohol and tobacco use sooner and guide people to help before long-term harm develops.
https://english.radio.cz/czechia-rolls-out-new-screening-tackle-rising-alcohol-and-addiction-risks-8870025

The Brussels Times (Belgium) - Blood-alcohol threshold lowered in province surrounding Brussels
Starting tomorrow, prosecutors from Leuven and Halle-Vilvoorde (Flemish Brabant) will lower the blood alcohol limit required for immediate driving licence suspension to 0.35 g/l.
https://www.brusselstimes.com/1857271/blood-alcohol-threshold-lowered-in-province-surrounding-brussels

France 24 - Santé! A look at the rising popularity of non-alcoholic drinks
In this edition of Entre Nous, we look at the rising popularity of non-alcoholic drinks. Once reserved for Dry January or other detox moments, alcohol-free beer, wine and mocktails are becoming more of a lifestyle choice, particularly for members of Gen Z.
https://www.france24.com/en/tv-shows/entre-nous/20251127-sante-a-look-at-the-rising-popularity-of-non-alcoholic-drinks

IAS Blog - Zero-alcohol products: a tool for moderation or a tool for growth?
Zero-alcohol products, which taste and appear as common alcoholic beverages but contain little or no alcohol, have become an increasingly popular choice. Recent findings suggest around a third of adults in Great Britain have at least tried them, with similar findings observed in a survey of Australian teenagers.
https://www.ias.org.uk/2025/11/26/zero-alcohol-products-a-tool-for-moderation-or-a-tool-for-growth/

IAS Blog (UK) - Alcohol duty to increase in line with inflation
At today’s Budget, the Chancellor announced that alcohol duty rates will be increased, to keep them in line with inflation.
https://www.ias.org.uk/news/alcohol-duty-to-increase-in-line-with-inflation/

Movendi - Confronting the Commercial Drivers of Gendered Violence: Alcohol Policy as a Catalyst for Women’s Rights
Advancing women’s rights and safety means listening to the evidence and to the voices of women and communities who are experiencing the harm and are calling for action on alcohol harm and the practices of the alcohol industry.
https://movendi.ngo/newsletters/confronting-the-commercial-drivers-of-gendered-violence-alcohol-policy-as-a-catalyst-for-womens-rights/

Länderfokus (EU) - EU pushes for alcohol-free driving
The rules on drinking and driving vary across the EU. Denmark is lowering the tolerance limit and the Commission is planning a zero-alcohol regulation.
https://www.treffpunkteuropa.de/eu-pushes-for-alcohol-free-driving?lang=fr

YLE (Finland) - Booze delivered to your door in Finland? Not anytime soon
Handling of a controversial government bill regarding online alcohol sales and home delivery has been postponed until next year.
https://yle.fi/a/74-20196588

NordAN (Norway) - 6 in 10 have experienced drunk colleagues at the Christmas party
Christmas party season is well underway, and the alcohol-awareness organisation Av-og-til has a clear message. “The Christmas party is not the event where you should make a fool of yourself,” says Secretary General Ragnhild Kaski.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/6-in-10-have-experienced-drunk-colleagues-at-the-christmas-party

Alcohol Awareness (UK) - #LetsTalkAddiction this National Addiction Awareness Week 2025
The UK’s leading addiction campaign, Taking Action On Addiction, begins its 2025 week of action on 23 November. Created by the Forward Trust and launched by their Royal Patron, The Princess of Wales, the campaign is focused on getting the nation to talk about addiction.
https://alcoholcampaign.org/2025/11/24/letstalkaddiction-this-national-addiction-awareness-week-2025/