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Monday, December 31, 2012

Alcohol News - last in 2012


Daily Nation (Kenya) - Alcohol turning our children into zombies!
Up to the late 1970s, it was rare to encounter a young man staggering home or lying by the roadside dead drunk. These days, it is more common to spot young people in a drunken stupor than elderly persons.
Independent Online (South Africa) - 'Alcohol the enemy of all drivers'
Transport authorities have slated drivers for continuing to drive while under the influence of liquor, saying 60-65 percent of all road fatalities, specially those over weekends, are as a result of alcohol abuse by drivers.
Liverpool Echo (UK) - Liverpool named one of country’s alcohol abuse capitals
LIVERPOOL was named one of the worst cities in the country for alcohol abuse for the third successive year. As thousands head out to bars and clubs to welcome in the New Year tonight, the ECHO can reveal more people were admitted to hospital because of alcohol here than anywhere else in the country – except for Manchester.
Indian Express (UK) - Middle-aged women consuming more alcohol than teen daughters
Middle-aged professional women are drinking more alcohol than their daughters, according to official figures.
Gizmodo Australia (Australia) - What Happens When You Get Alcohol Poisoning?
As regular Happy Hour readers know, there’s nothing we like more than finding new, innovative and fun approaches to drinking. But there’s a darker side that must be acknowledged. Specifically, you can poison yourself and die.
Huffington Post - The Effects Of Alcohol In The Body (INFOGRAPHIC)
Most of us know that drinking too much can lead to car accidents, addictions or worse. We know drinking a little can make us giggly or weepy, lose our balance or lose our lunch, feel ravenously hungry the morning after or want nothing more than to be still in a dark room until that terrible pounding subsides.
The Bay of Plenty Times (New Zealand) - Police plan hard line on alcohol
Police will be taking a hard line on alcohol at New Year celebrations tonight but they predict a relatively orderly night in contrast to the chaos they encountered more than a decade ago when riots broke out in Mount Maunganui.
Kyiv Post (Ukraine) - Regions Party MPs suggest ban on alcohol sale at night
Members of Parliament from the Regions Party faction Iryna Berezhna and Andriy Pinchuk suggest that the sale of beer, alcoholic beverages and low-alcohol drinks should be banned in Ukraine from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. except for at restaurants and cafés.
The Daily Telegraph (Australia) - Editorial: Governments cannot afford to ignore alcohol abuse
INEVITABLY it will be decried in some quarters as yet another example of the nanny state in full flow. Yet basic common sense dictates that if governments have a responsibility for the health of their citizens then alcohol abuse cannot be ignored.
Military.com (USA) - Study: Alcohol Culture Taking Toll
Thomas Brennan was still unloading his bags at his first duty station when he saw the other Marines drinking on the catwalks.
RT (Russia) - Russians to drink 1.5bn liters of alcohol over New Year holidays
If all the bottles of alcohol drunk by Russians during the upcoming 10-day holidays were put on the equator, they’d wrap the globe 17 times. Defying stereotypes, statistics say vodka is no longer the nation’s favorite strong alcohol drink.
Kyiv Post (Russia) - Russian alcohol preferences not changing, vodka, beer still tops
Russians' preferences in alcoholic beverages are not changing, and vodka and beer are still top of the heap, as evidenced by Federal State Statistics Service (Rosstat) figures for January-November released on Saturday.
euronews (Poland) - Several die in Poland after drinking poisoned alcohol
A seventh person is believed to have died in Poland as a result of drinking contaminated alcohol.
Middle East Online (Tunisia) - Islamist-led Tunisia to raise alcohol duty
The Islamist-led ruling coalition in Tunisia raised alcohol duty on Wednesday in a bid to bolster state coffers despite criticism from rival Islamists that it was wrong to profit from an activity prohibited by the faith.
Futurity: Research News - Lasting impact from alcohol exposure in utero
Even low levels of prenatal alcohol exposure impact brain development and the effects persist into adulthood, new research suggests.
The Hindu (India) - Most accidents on New Year day are due to drunken driving, say police
R. Vinod Kumar (25), a cab driver and a resident of Murphy Town, was returning home from M.G. Road with his friend after ushering in the New Year last year. His motorcycle hit a car and Kumar sustained severe head injuries. He died on the way to hospital.
Scotsman (Scotland) - Minister in last-minute plea over alcohol pricing
The health secretary yesterday made a last-minute attempt to persuade health ministers in the European Union to back his plan for a minimum unit price for alcohol.
French Tribune (France) - Four-Fifth of the College Engaged in Alcohol Consumption
As reported by the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, alcohol drinking has become a very big problem among the college students.
Greek Reporter (Greece) - Alcohol Tax Hike Cuts Greek Sales
Just as increased taxes on restaurants and bars have driven down sales and revenues, a big hike in taxes on alcoholic drinks in Greece in a desperate bid to raise money has also backfired, sending tax revenues down and cutting consumption in half.
Courier Mail - Alcohol companies market to children on Facebook and internet
ALCOHOL companies are avoiding restrictions on marketing to children by using Facebook and the internet, with authorities investigating whether advertising codes need to be overhauled.
Telegraph.co.uk (Russia) - Beer to become 'alcohol' in Russia on New Year's Day
Many Russians consider beer a soft drink – a light refresher that can be guzzled on the way to work or sucked down in great quantities before a picnic and a swim in the river.

Monday, December 24, 2012

Alcohol News - 52/2012


Statistics Finland (Finland) - Alcohol-related causes of death are decreasing
Alcohol-related causes have been for several years among the most common causes of death for both men and women, and the figures are high for the whole population as well. Alcohol-related deaths include both alcohol-related diseases and accidental poisoning by alcohol.
Yle Uutiset (Finland) - TS: Theme parks threatened with alcohol ban
Theme parks in Finland could in the future find it more difficult to get a license to serve alcohol if a legislative proposal is approved by parliament.
Göteborg Daily (Sweden) - Alcohol boom gate can be tested in Gothenburg
Swedish police will trial automated alcohol testing in a bid to reduce the number of alcohol affected truck drivers coming in on the ferries. Gothenburg is one of several locations being considered, according to P4 Göteborg.
The Foriegner (Norway) - Duty-free system to be spirited away
The Norwegian State has decided to try to stop what they call the “smuggling” of alcohol upon returning to this country. According to the Norwegian Telegram Bureau (NTB), the paper ticket’s demise has meant passengers have been able to obtain a double-quota, as proof of travel is now electronic instead.
Circumpolar Health (Greenland) - Alcohol in Greenland 1951-2010: consumption, mortality, prices
The effect of alcohol excise taxes and rationing upon consumption is evident. The stabilisation and subsequent decline in consumption since the mid-1990s, while alcohol prices decreased persistently, does not preclude continued effects of prices.
Skemman (Iceland) - Regrets after alcohol consumption following the 2008 financial crisis in Iceland: A prospective cohort study
In a prospective Icelandic cohort, our findings indicate that regrets after drinking decreased following the economic recession in 2008; specifically for males, those who were married or cohabiting, employed or with a university education.
Reuters UK (China) - Moutai shares lead alcohol tumble after China bans spirits from army feasts
Chinese distiller Kweichow Moutai Co Ltd 6000519.SS led a tumble in the country's alcohol sector on Monday after Beijing banned its top brass from hosting boozy banquets while working, Communist Party chief Xi Jinping's latest anti-corruption move.
UPI.com - Expanding waistlines may be due to alcohol
Those who can't lose weight despite exercising and cutting back on high-calorie food may be drinking too many calories from beverages, a U.S. dietitian says.
Payvand (Iran) - Deaths from alcohol soar in Iran
ISNA reported on Sunday December 23 that recent statistics show 92 men and nine women lost their lives due to alcohol poisoning in the past seven months, which indicates an increase of over 100 percent compared to last year.
Times of India (India) - Govt plans to introduce a sin tax to curb use of alcohol, tobacco
India has mooted the introduction of a designated "sin tax" to finance a part of the health budget during the 12th five year plan (2012-2017).
The Daily Telegraph (Australia) - Mixing alcohol and drugs a troubling trend
Just after midnight a 27-year-old man who had drunk a bottle of bourbon and five beers came to the emergency department with chest pain. In emergency medicine we have to worry about the worst possibility.
Examiner.com (USA) - Government board calls for alcohol detectors in all cars
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) December 19 called for the development of passive alcohol-detection technology in cars and trucks to achieve "zero alcohol-impaired driving-related deaths."
Hindustan Times (India) - More girls experimenting with drugs, alcohol
A girl in her early twenties was admitted to a private hospital in SAS Nagar in an unconscious state about a week ago. She had mixed her alcoholic drink with a sedative, which caused difficulty in breathing and made her unconscious.
Radio Australia (Philippines) - Philippines attacks 'vices' with tobacco, alcohol tax raise
The Philippines on Thursday raised tobacco and alcohol taxes in a reform President Benigno Aquino hailed as helping to liberate "more Filipinos from the vices of smoking and drinking".
Solomon Star (Solomon Islands) - CURSE OF ALCOHOL - It’s the leading cause of traffic accidents here
ALCOHOL is the leading cause of traffic accidents during festive seasons in the last 12 years, statistics released yesterday revealed.
Express (Scotland) - SNP PLAN TO BAN BUYING ALCOHOL OVER THE INTERNET
WINE club members will be among those breaking the law under legislation planned by the SNP Government – if they take advantage of cut-price offers delivered from English warehouses.
Bangkok Post (Indonesia) - Indonesia considers total alcohol ban
Indonesian lawmakers are pushing for a ban on all alcoholic beverages throughout the archipelago that would see drinkers punished with up to two years in jail.
Medical Xpress - Excessive alcohol when you're young could have lasting impacts on your brain
Alcohol misuse in young people causes significant changes in their brain function and structure. This and other findings were recently reviewed by Dr Daniel Hermens from the University of Sydney's Brain and Mind Research Institute in the journal Cortex.
Taranaki Daily News (New Zealand) - Alcohol harm has important implications for Maori
With Christmas and New Year's celebrations approaching it's timely that we focus on the issues that contribute to binge drinking, drink-driving and the disastrous consequences for our communities.
GoodTherapy.org - How Age of Onset Predicts Drug and Alcohol Dependency
Transmissible risk refers to generational risk or family risk. Some people have a family history of physical or mental health problems, which makes them more vulnerable to developing the same problems.
Times of India (India) - WHO suggests raising liquor price to curb violence against women
Even as the national Capital remains shell shocked over the gruesome rape of the 23-year-old, the World Health Organization (WHO) has suggested clamping down on alcohol availability and raising liquor price to reduce its consumption as an important intervention to reduce violence both sexual and physical against women.

Sunday, December 23, 2012

FASD News - 51/2012


Regina Leader-Post (Canada) - Professor analysing FASD data
A University of Regina instructor hopes her research will lead to better ways of interacting with those affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Scoop.co.nz (New Zealand) - Society 'will feel impact' of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
A First Nations leader said fetal alcohol spectrum disorder — also known as FASD — is an "alarming" problem amongst Canada's Aboriginal population.
Shoreline Beacon (Canada) - Campaign warns against prenatal drink consumption
The Grey Bruce Health Unit and Fetal Alcohol Neurobehavioral Leadership Group have launched a coaster campaign to remind those indulging in holiday libations of the negative effects of alcohol on a developing fetus.
Scoop.co.nz (New Zealand) - Women reveal the cost of their drinking in documentary
New Zealand women reveal the cost of their drinking in documentary. “I didn’t realise my baby was as drunk as a skunk,” says Jackie, a married Hawke’s Bay mother of three, talking about the effect drinking while she was pregnant has had on her young son.
San Francisco Chronicle (USA) - SD program aims to curb fetal alcohol syndrome
South Dakota's largest medical facility and the Oglala Sioux Tribe have announced a partnership to expand a program aimed at preventing fetal alcohol syndrome and other alcohol-related problems affecting Native American children by intervening before their mothers become pregnant.

RESOURCES and VIDEOS
FASD Think Tank - Over 100 Holiday Strategies for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Supporting yourself and your family
Holidays are a tough time for our kids. We may place pressure on ourselves to try to make holidays perfect. What matters is family and love and learning to live and appreciate each other for our unique gifts.
NOFAS - Nicholas (age 9) on living with FASD
The National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFAS) is the leading voice and resource of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) community.
NOFAS - Nancy Roget on FASD - Frontier Regional FASD Training Center
The National Benefit Authority - CARING FOR A BABY WITH FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), a health condition that is caused when women ingest alcohol during pregnancy, has been Disability Living’s topic of discussion for the past week.'

UPCOMING
Government of Alberta - FASD Learning Series 2012-13
FASD Trust Event Calendar - UK

RESEARCH
ScienceAlerts - Global Functional Connectivity Abnormalities in Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Previous studies, including those employing diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), have revealed significant disturbances in the white matter of individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).
Alcoholism - Approaching the Prevalence of the Full Spectrum of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders in a South African Population-Based Study
The prevalence and characteristics of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) were determined in this fourth study of first-grade children in a South African community.
Alcoholism - Imbalanced Synaptic Plasticity Induced Spatial Cognition Impairment in Male Offspring Rats Treated with Chronic Prenatal Ethanol Exposure
As chronic prenatal ethanol (EtOH) exposure (CPEE) may cause deficiencies in a variety of behavioral and cognitive functions, the aim of present study is to investigate the effects of CPEE on spatial learning and memory and examine the action of CPEE on synaptic plasticity balance in the hippocampus of adolescent male rats.
Sanford Research - Study to curb alcohol-exposed pregnancies receives funding
A Sanford Research initiative to prevent alcohol-exposed pregnancies (AEP) and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in American Indian communities has been granted funding of more than $800,000 by the National Institutes of Health.

IN OTHER LANGUAGES
Bayerischer Rundfunk (Germany) - Eine vermeidbare Behinderung
Jährlich werden nach Angaben der Berliner Charité 10.000 Kinder in Deutschland geboren, die am Fetalen Alkoholsyndrom, kurz FASD, leiden. Es entsteht, wenn Mütter in der Schwangerschaft Alkohol trinken.
Heilpraxisnet.de (Germany) - Neue Leitlinie zur Diagnose des Fetalen Alkoholsyndroms vorgestellt
Das Fetale Alkoholsyndrom ist mit jährlich zwischen 2.000 und 4.000 betroffenen Neugeborenen die häufigste angeborene Behinderung in Deutschland, berichte die Drogenbeauftragte der Bundesregierung. Eine neue Leitlinie soll nun die Diagnose von Alkoholschäden bei Kindern deutlich erleichtern.

Monday, December 17, 2012

Alcohol News - 51/2012


The Foreigner (Norway) - Christmas stress ups Norway drinking
25 percent of Norwegians drink to relieve the stress of the Christmas period. One in three in Oslo admits to doing so, a survey conducted by Ipsos MMI suggests.
ERR News (Estonia) - Searching for Historical Roots of Affair With Bottle
Which of Estonia's historical foreign occupiers is most responsible for the firewater epidemic? The Germans were the first to set a bad example, according to historians, but only the first.
Eubusiness - Alcohol causes a quarter of Europe road deaths
Alcohol abuse is responsible for around a quarter of the 30,000 people who die in road accidents across the European Union every year, the bloc's drugs agency said in a report published on Friday.
Helsinki Times (Finland) - Holidays induce a spike in alcohol sales
The sales of Alko, Finland’s alcoholic beverage retailing monopoly, are projected to surge by 90 per cent in terms of litres over the two weeks leading up to Christmas.
Reuters (Denmark/Finland) - Lundbeck's alcohol dependency drug wins EU green light
A novel drug to fight alcohol dependency was given a green light by European regulators on Friday, providing a boost to Danish drugmaker Lundbeck at a time when its top product faces a big drop in sales.
The Local (Sweden) - Pilot sticker lands French wine with Swedish ban
The Swedish state alcohol-monopoly has banned a French wine from its shelves because the label shows a pilot in action, prompting the importer of the "Flying Solo" wine to appeal the ban.
The Local (Sweden) - Systembolaget to bring booze to Swedes' offices
After its home delivery trials failed to created a stir, Sweden’s state-run liquor store monopoly Systembolaget announced on Friday that it would be trialing delivery to customers’ work places.
Politics.co.uk (UK) - Cameron defies Clegg over 'illiberal' alcohol pricing policy
David Cameron is continuing to commit to a policy of minimum alcohol pricing of 45p per unit, despite many Cabinet members opposing the move.
Deutsche Welle (Germany) - Too much meat and alcohol
Many Germans still stick to their unhealthy diet of too much meat and alcohol. Though there are some positive trends, too many Germans are still overweight and also at risk of other illnesses like cancer.
Telegraph.co.uk (UK) - David Cameron fights to save minimum alcohol pricing
David Cameron is fighting to save his plans for minimum alcohol pricing to tackle Britain's binge drinking epidemic, after a revolt among senior Cabinet ministers.
Deccan Herald - Alcohol, marijuana worsen white-matter integrity
Chronic alcohol and marijuana consumption during youth is associated with compromised neurocognitive abilities in later adolescence and adulthood, researchers say.
WalesOnline (Wales) - Minimum price on alcohol will help save lives
ALCOHOL consumption in the UK has increased rapidly in recent years, and now, according to the World Health Organisation, it is the leading risk factor for premature death and disability in developed countries after tobacco and blood pressure.
Radio 1 (UK) - Thousands of people at risk through Christmas drinking
Thousands of people will be putting their lives at risk over Christmas because of accidents and illnesses caused by alcohol, say A&E doctors.
Eurekalert - Alcohol marketers use drinker identity and brand allegiance to entice underage youth
While exposure to alcohol marketing is prevalent, and associated with both initiation and progression of alcohol use in underage youth, exactly how it works is not well understood. A new study of alcohol-specific cognitions – whether someone thinks of him/herself as a drinker or having a favorite brand of alcohol – has found that drinker identity and brand allegiance are indeed factors linking alcohol marketing and problematic drinking among experimental underage drinkers.
The Hindu - In 2010, high BP, smoking and alcohol were the big killers
The leading risk factors for global disease burden in 2010 were high blood pressure, tobacco smoking (including second-hand smoking) and alcohol use; 20 years earlier, they were childhood underweight, household pollution from sold fuels and tobacco smoking, including passive smoking.
BBC News - Alcohol dependency: When social drinking becomes a problem
Alcohol-related health issues among baby boomers are on the rise. Daily drinking can start off as a social event but turn into dependency, addiction experts say. So when does social drinking become alcoholism?
The Nation (Thailand) - Alcohol sales set to be banned at roadside stalls
Starting from the New Year holiday period, roadside food stalls will be banned from selling alcoholic drinks, while all sales of alcoholic beverages will be limited to 11am-2pm and 5pm-midnight, Public Health Minister Pradit Sinthawanarong said yesterday.
The Guardian (UK) - Social workers need more training on drug and alcohol issues
Alcohol and other drug issues are a central part of much of social work practice, and if key issues in this area are missed, interventions linked to other behaviours or problems will not be so effective. So why are so many social work degrees leaving students uneducated about problematic substance use?
Science Daily - Alcohol Pricing Policies Save Lives and Increase Profits, Experts Say
Setting minimum prices for alcohol increases health and economic benefits, say international experts, who met December 10 for a seminar on alcohol pricing and public health.
Forbes (USA) - A Sober Assessment of High-Risk Drinking on College Campuses
A few years ago, in the middle of a snowy night, an officer of the Cornell University Police Department found a shirtless young man sitting on a rock in the creek in one of our gorges, dangling his feet in the water. Asked what he thought he was doing, the student explained that he was calling a friend to pick him up.
Medical Xpress - Alcohol hinders recovery from injury, research finds
A Massey University researcher has found drinking alcohol after suffering a soft tissue injury significantly increases recovery times.
Scoop.co.nz (New Zealand) - Kapiti Police: strong line to prevent alcohol-related harm
Kapiti Police are extremely happy with the decision of the Liquor Licensing Authority (LLA) to not renew the on-licence for the Retro Bar in the Kapiti Lights Complex.
Sydney Morning Herald (Australia) - New alcohol alliance predicts 300 drink deaths this summer
HEAVY drinking will kill 300 people and cause thousands more to be assaulted or put in hospital this summer, according to fresh analysis from a new body, the NSW/ACT Alcohol Policy Alliance.
The Age (Australia) - The national abuse of alcohol makes it our most harmful drug
THE hundreds of ways we describe being drunk, many of an unprintable nature, are a measure of a pervasive and damaging drinking culture. In this season of schoolies week, Christmas and New Year, Australia's drinking habits are on display in all their mindless and all-too-often tragic excess.

Monday, December 10, 2012

Alcohol News - 50/2012


The Baltic Course (Estonia) - 87% Estonian adults consume alcohol, 34% smoke
The Estonian social ministry presented on Tuesday the Green Book of alcohol and tobacco policy which indicates that 87% of Estonian adults consume alcohol and 34.2% smoke, LETA/Delfi reports.
The Baltic Course (Estonia) - Estonian government mulls stricter rules on alcohol
The Social Affairs Ministry of Estonia proposed more rigid rules related to alcohol use – including raising the official drinking age, stricter rules on advertising, and "dry days“, the Estonian national broadcasting corporation ERR reports.
Alcohol and Alcoholism (Finland) - Socioeconomic Disadvantage and Indicators of Risky Alcohol-drinking Patterns
These results highlight the need to take into account the multidimensionality of risky alcohol-drinking patterns as a contributing factor in the socioeconomic gradient in alcohol use.
Addiction (Sweden) - Swedish alcohol consumption on the threshold of modernity: legislation, attitudes and national economy c. 1775–1855
In Sweden in the late 18th and early 19th centuries the social elite appears to have used alcohol as a tool in their negotiations with the working population but later, as the spread of wage labour and cheap vodka coincided with Sweden's largest ever population growth, the view that popular drinking must be checked gained support in leading circles.
SIRUS (Norway) - Alcohol use and drunk driving: the modifying effect of impulsivity
The association between drinking and drunk driving is significantly stronger among those with a high score on impulsivity compared with those who have a low score.
Iceland Review (Iceland) - Home Brewing Increases in Iceland
Home brewing and the smuggling of alcohol to Iceland has reportedly increased. According to a new survey carried out by MMR for the Icelandic Federation of Trade (FA), almost 50 percent of respondents 18 to 29 years old said there had been an increase in home brewing and smuggling of alcohol since before the crash in 2008.
The Independent (UK) - Parents 'should drink alcohol less in front of their children' says report
Parents should drink less in front of their children if they want to prevent their offspring becoming binge drinkers, a new report suggests today.
Medical Xpress - Pre-drinking alcohol before hitting the nightclubs likely to lead to violence, study finds
The increasingly common practice of drinking at home before hitting the nightclubs is the major predictor of people experiencing harm or violence, Australia's largest study into alcohol-related nightlife crime has found.
Occupational Health and Safety (WHO) - WHO Joins Four Countries in Opening Alcohol Internet Portals
The portals include self-screening tools for hazardous and harmful use of alcohol, as well as self-help programs. The countries are Brazil, India, Mexico, and Belarus.
7thSpace Interactive (South Africa) - South Africa: S Africans urged to refrain from alcohol, substance abuse
As South Africans prepare for a well-deserved festive season break, the Department of Social Development has called upon all South Africans to refrain from alcohol and drug abuse during holiday festivities.
Afrique en Ligue (Botswana) - Campaign against alcohol abuse in Botswana
Botswana to step up campaign against alcohol abuse - Botswana’s fight against alcohol abuse is set to intensify during the forthcoming festive season, as the government has reminded liquor traders and the public to strictly observe liquor trading hours.
Herald Scotland (Ireland/Scotland) - Irish back alcohol plan
SCOTTISH ministers have received strong support from the Irish Government in their battle with Brussels to avoid having minimum unit pricing of alcohol declared in breach of EU rules.
Radio New Zealand (new Zealand) - Alcohol outlet numbers linked with more crime
A new study links higher numbers of alcohol shops in South Auckland with more incidents of violent crime and vehicle crashes.
Bikya Masr (Egypt) - Egypt announces tax hikes, hits alcohol and tobacco hardest
As part of Egypt’s agreement for a $4.8 billion loan with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) the country was forced to implement a series of tax hikes.
Emory University News and Events - Alcohol abuse in young adults may affect brain development
The face of alcoholism has changed drastically. What was once viewed as a middle aged, blue collar, white, male disease now reflects a diverse group of young adults both male and female.
680 News (Canada) - Canadian alcohol sales likely to set new record this year: report
Sales of wine, beer and spirits will likely hit a record high this year, according to a new report from BMO Capital Markets.
Science Daily - Parents Key to Preventing Alcohol, Marijuana Use by Kids
New research from North Carolina State University, Brigham Young University and the Pennsylvania State University finds that parental involvement is more important than the school environment when it comes to preventing or limiting alcohol and marijuana use by children.
Alaska Dispatch (USA) - Study: Alcohol is number-one health concern to Alaskans
Alcohol abuse is the number-one health issue of concern to Alaskans, a new study has found.
The Independent - The binge-drinking gene: Scientists identify key risk factor in alcohol abuse
Scientists could soon be able to predict whether teenage boys are likely to become heavy drinkers by looking at whether they carry a particular variant of a gene linked to thrill-seeking behaviour, a study suggests.
Daily Mail (UK) - Drivers can’t tot up their drinks: 80% exceed the limit by miscalculating amount of alcohol in pub measures
Up to four in five motorists risk exceeding the drink-drive limit by miscalculating the alcoholic content of pub measures, says a study today.
The Consumerist (USA) - As Economy Recovers, Americans Are Drinking More Alcohol
It looks like Americans’ spirits are up — or at least the sales of spirits to Americans are up, as a new survey shows that people are buying more beer, wine and liquor when they go out to eat.
Andean Airmail & PERUVIAN TIMES (Peru) - Alcohol Responsible for Some 9,000 Peru Traffic Accidents in 2011 – Govt
Alcohol consumption was responsible for almost 9,000 traffic accidents in 2011, according to data released this week by the Health Ministry.

Sunday, December 9, 2012

FASD News - 50/2012


NEWS and ARTICLES
HealthCanal.com (Australia) - Population-based study provides new alcohol and pregnancy data
From the findings of the first-ever population-based study of its kind in Australia, a Curtin University researcher has released a report highlighting the impact of maternal alcohol consumption on the health and development of children.
Herald Sun (Australia) - Hospitals under fire from medical chief for offering alcohol to pregnant women
HOSPITALS are offering pregnant mums wine and beer - despite doctors' alarm over the number of "booze babies" born with brain damage.
SBS (Australia) - MPs want fetal alcohol warning on drinks
All alcoholic drinks should carry a health warning for pregnant women, a parliamentary committee says.
Stuff.co.nz (New Zealand) - Booze risks for unborn spur mum into action
A mother of a disabled son is pleading for warning labels to be slapped on alcohol to prevent hundreds of children being born brain-damaged every year.
ABC Online (Australia) - Inquiry to report on fetal alcohol problem
Australia's love of alcohol is well documented - even celebrated. Less publicised are the consequences of pregnant women who drink and damage their unborn babies.
Lethbridge Herald (Canada) - Reaching out to FASD victims
As a former young offenders centre employee and group home worker, Brent Lorenz learned to work with struggling kids before they got wrapped up in a life of crime. Now a constable with the Lethbridge regional police, he's the only police officer in the world who deals specifically with youth who have fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Canada First Perspective (Canada) - Society 'will feel impact' of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
A First Nations leader said fetal alcohol spectrum disorder — also known as FASD — is an "alarming" problem amongst Canada's Aboriginal population.
AllAfrica.com (South Africa) - South Africa: Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Campaign in Carnavon
Alcohol is killing the moral fibre of our society, and it has now reached a point where unborn babies are disabled for life due to the fact that mothers are consuming alcohol during pregnancy. This phenomena has rocked the rural town of De Aar, to point where it is now the town with the highest reported incidences of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome.

UPCOMING EVENTS
First International Conference on Prevention of FASD
Call for Abstracts Now Open
Provincial Outreach Program - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and the Justice System (webinar)
This webcast will share knowledge and information about FASD and the justice system by:
· briefly exploring what Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is;
· presenting on a program designed and implemented by the Asante Centre for youth involved in the justice system with FASD (including findings and statistics);
· sharing research findings focusing on substance abuse (drug and alcohol programs for youth with FASD) being lead by the Asante Centre; and
· describing Manitoba’s Youth Justice FASD program for youth involved the criminal justice system (including challenges and recommendations)
SFU - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Conferences
This conference is a 3-day juried hearing of evidence and scientific findings that allows for the engagement and collaboration of citizens, decision makers in government, and the justice system in addressing a specific set of key questions on legal issues of FASD.

MATERIALS and VIDEOS
Best Start - Breastfeeding and Alcohol Use: Parent Knowledge and Behaviours in Ontario, 2011
The Best Start Resource Centre would like to thank Leger Marketing for completing this Ontario parent survey about breastfeeding and alcohol use, providing the data analysis and identifying preliminary trends.
NOFAS - Tania Peterman on living with FASD
The National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFAS) is the leading voice and resource of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) community. Founded in 1990, NOFAS is the only international non-profit organization committed solely to FASD primary prevention, advocacy and support.
CAPHC - Beyond Screening - Understanding the Core Deficits and Diagnosis of FASD
This webinar is an extension of our webinar series on screening tools for FASD.

IN OTHER LANGUAGES
Rodinka (Slovakia) - Čo by ste povedali tehotnej, ktorá pije alkohol?
Takouto jednoduchou otázkou začínala konferencia Návratu, venovaná FAS-cinujúcim deťom. Tak si skúste sami pred sebou v duchu odpovedať.
Delfi (Estonia) - Karskusliit: kinkige oma veel sündimata lapsele alkoholivaba 9 kuud
Alkoholi tarvitamine raseduse ajal põhjustab erinevaid kahjustusi vähemalt 1%-le Euroopa Liidu elanikest, mõjutades seega umbes 5 miljonit inimest. Tegemist on seega Euroopa Liidus sünnidefektide ja arenguhäirete juhtiva põhjusega, mis on samas 100% ennetatav.

Monday, December 3, 2012

Alcohol New - 49/2012


News2Biz (Latvia) - LATVIA: Stricter regulations for alcohol retail
The Latvian Saeima has supported new alcohol retail regulations. Although alcohol still can be purchased from 18 years, now the buyers aged 18-25 will have to present an ID to the cashier without being asked to do so.
Lunaticg Banknote (Latvia) - Latvia new coin bring controversy
Latvia new coin bring controversy when their own country health ministry write a protest letter to Bank of Latvia that the new coin is just a way to advertise alcohol. The Cupro-nickel coin was released earlier this month for Latvia solstice festival, where people will drink beers for the celebrations.
ERR News (Estonia) - 'Dry Days' Contemplated as Part of National Alcohol Policy
More details have emerged regarding the Social Affairs Ministry's vision of a national alcohol policy, painting a picture of a sharp change of course toward increased restrictions.
IOGT (Sweden) - Sweden calls for an end to alcohol advertising on national television
Today alcohol advertising is broadcasted on several Swedish TV channels even though there is a clear prohibition against alcohol advertising on radio and TV. By broadcasting from the UK, TV channels, so far, have managed to circumvent Swedish legislation.
GRETTE (Norway) - Alcohol brand owners might be allowed to advertise on Norwegian TV
Norway is on the verge of involuntarily allowing the advertising of alcoholic beverages on television, contrary to the country’s strict alcohol policy. This change, which may take place as a result of pressure from the EU Commission, would have a significant impact for owners of alcohol brands.
HaberMonitor (Denmark) - Excessive alcohol consumption of young people revolted NGOs in Denmark
Despite all the measures implemented in Denmark recently mitigated with a kind of alcohol consumption, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) brought to the point of rebellion.
BBC News (UK) - EC voice opposition to Scotland's alcohol price plan
Scotland's plans for minimum pricing on alcohol are a disproportionate response to the country's drink problems, the European Commission has said.
Fox News - Drug, alcohol abuse tied to early-life strokes
Younger adults who suffered a stroke were often smokers or had abused drugs or alcohol, according to a U.S. study that looked at over 1,000 patients.
Herald Scotland (Scotland) - Police issue alcohol warning to drivers
The Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (Acpos) said that, while they support Scottish Government proposals to reduce the alcohol limit, people who plan to get behind the wheel should not drink any alcohol at all.
Wall Street Journal (USA) - After-Hours Prohibition: U.S. Military Tightens Drinking Rules in Japan
The U.S. military in Okinawa has now prohibited all personnel from consuming alcohol while off base and restricted purchases of alcohol on base, according to a statement released over the weekend.
Irish Health (Ireland) - Alcohol kills someone every seven hours
There are more retail outlets in Ireland where you can purchase alcohol than fruit, vegetables or milk, a public health specialist has said.
The Australian (Australia) - Police launch nationwide crackdown on alcohol-related violence
REVELLERS who refuse to leave a pub or a club or fail to obey police orders will be hit with minimum $550 on-the-spot fines as part of the biggest crackdown on alcohol-related violence in Australia's history.
IcelandReview (Iceland) - Higher Benefits and Tariffs on Alcohol and Tobacco
The Government of Iceland is planning to boost revenue for the treasury by ISK 8.3 billion (USD 66 million, EUR 51 million) next year, such as by higher tariffs on alcohol and tobacco. These actions are to finance the increase in child benefits, among other issues.
BBC (Scotland) - Scots drink deaths fall but rates still high, says NHS
Alcohol-related deaths in Scotland have fallen, but the rate is still one of the highest in western and central Europe, an NHS report has said.
ABC Local (Australia) - Winemakers strategy to combat anti-alcohol lobby
The Winemakers Federation has a fresh strategy to combat health messages that alcohol is bad for us. The Federation is aniticipating sustained volleys from a committed anti-alcohol lobby.
Science World Report - Excess alcohol can have lasting effects on brain: Research
Using fly larvae as models, a new study reveals how overuse of alcohol can cause lasting changes in the brain even after alcohol abuse stops. In this study, the fly larvae were fed alcohol- spiked food for a period of days and they noticed how the larvae grew dependent on the spirit.'
Independent Online (South Africa) - Sex, drugs, booze up students’ HIV risk
More high school pupils are having sex, drinking alcohol and taking drugs before going to university – putting themselves at risk of contracting HIV and Aids, a local study has revealed.
Irish Times (Ireland) - 15% off-sales alcohol tax proposed
Publicans have urged the Government to introduce a 15 per cent tax on off-licence alcohol sales in the budget.
WA today (Australia) - Alcohol warning labels by 2014: parliamentary inquiry
Health warning labels will be added to alcohol products and advertisements by January 2014 if the federal government adopts a recommendation by a parliamentary inquiry.
Times of India (India) - More Indian women dependent on alcohol
The 33-year-old married woman from Chandigarh had never imagined that her excessive clubbing and partying would one day push her to the brink of suicide. But it did.
Examiner.com - Fetal alcohol syndrome affects on brain defined in new study
Researchers at the department of radiology at Jagiellonian University in Krakow Poland presented the most extensive definition to date of the affects on developing baby's brains by their mother’s consumption of alcohol during pregnancy at the November 25, 2012, session of the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
Wall Street Journal (South Korea) - As South Korea Tackles Drinking Culture, Samsung Sets Guidelines
After kicking off the night guzzling soju, a rice-based liquor, over grilled pork or raw fish, he and his co-workers would move on to a pub or karaoke lounge, occasionally past midnight.
Kyiv Post (Ukraine) - Alcohol price rise comes into effect
The increase in the floor wholesale and retail prices of some type of alcohol foreseen in cabinet resolution No. 1017 took effect from November 26, 2012.
ITV News (Wales) - Minimum alcohol price plans don't go far enough - Welsh Government
Responding to the UK Government's plans to impose a minimum price for alcohol of 45p per unit, a Welsh Government spokesperson said:
CBS News - Alcohol in "Flight" puts trademark laws in focus
The use of brand-name beer and liquor in a hit movie about an alcoholic pilot has brought product placement practices into new focus.
The Daily Telegraph - Drink brands attract underage followers on Facebook
ALCOHOL companies are turning to social media to encourage teenagers to drink. A study has found that brands popular among youths are increasingly harnessing sites like Facebook to broaden their reach.
Fars News Agency (UK) - Alcohol Second Cause of Early Death in UK
Findings of a recent study blamed alcohol as the primary cause of liver disease and second cause of early death in the UK.
Statesman Journal - Kids need parents, not drinking buddies
Loud pulsing music muffles the sound of young voices. Teens clutching cups of beer are dancing, nestled in dark corners, or passed out on couches. Where are the parents?
Technorati - Women are Dying to Drink like Men
The English Chief Medical officer has warned that women are damaging their health by trying to drink like men. Prof Dame Sally Davies, chief medical officer for England said women are damaging their livers and putting themselves at risk for alcohol abuse, obesity and a whole host of other problems.
MarketWatch (Canada) - Canada Needs Minimum Alcohol Prices to Reduce Harm: New Research Series
New alcohol pricing research upholds the call for minimum pricing and confirms that changes to price policy can reduce alcohol-related harm in Canada.