Pages

Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Alcohol News - 51/2017

NEWS.com.au (Australia) - Draft strategy proposes radical plan to boost booze prices
WINE lovers and young drinkers would be hardest hit by a government proposal to increase booze prices.
Science Daily - What is the best policy for reducing the impact of alcohol on the road accident rate?
Researchers from the University of Seville have analysed alcohol consumption in traffic accident fatalities in the European Union.
The Guardian - The damage alcohol does to young teenagers is not easily spotted
Aged 16, with the creamy, peach-skin face of a child, wearing my mum’s work skirt and a pair of navy court shoes, I sat, smiling serenely, without my parents, in the Oxford branch of an Italian restaurant chain and ordered an Irish coffee.
YLE News (Finland) - Longer opening hours, stronger drink in groceries, higher taxes - new alcohol legislation passes Parliament
The Finnish Parliament on Tuesday gave final approval to a package of alcohol legislation and at the same time raised taxes on alcoholic beverages in an effort to reduce consumption.
The Guardian (UK) - One in six parents allow children alcohol by age of 14, says study
One in six parents allow their children to drink alcohol by the age of 14, with potentially dire future consequences, according to a new study.
The Atlantic - Even Small Amounts of Alcohol Impair Memory
I can’t even remember what happened that night” is a common joke/cry for help among people who recently drank to the point of blacking out. But there’s also evidence that drinking even a little bit can seriously impair learning and memory.
The Independent (UK) - ‘Tis the season for sobering statistics
More than a third of Brits are choosing not to drink alcohol at up to four social occasions this festive season, a new study has found.
New Zealand Herald (New Zealand) - Police urge alcohol restraint as Christmas approaches
Police are appealing to Northlanders to take it easy on the booze after a number of alcohol-related incidents in the lead-up to the festive season.
Education Week - Steer Students Away From Alcohol by Broadening Their Social Circles, Study Says
Cooperative learning in the classroom may have an unexpected benefit for middle school students: a lower chance that they'll use alcohol.
The Copenhagen Post (Denmark) - More Danes choosing alcohol-free beer
Beer-loving Danes are starting to develop a taste for alcohol-free beer. Sales of alcohol free beer have risen significantly over the past year according to the brewery association Bryggeriforeningen.
Pharmacy Today - Talk to patients about how alcohol and medications #DONTMIX
With the holidays in mind, the National Council of Patient Information & Education (NCPIE) and Healthline have partnered to launch #DONTMIX, a social awareness campaign that ties back to NCPIE’s single message to “think before you drink—sometimes alcohol and medicines don’t mix.”
Wall Street Journal (USA) - Drug and Alcohol Deaths at U.S. Workplaces Soar
The number of U.S. deaths at work from unintentional drug and alcohol overdoses jumped more than 30% in 2016, according to new government data, showing that the nation’s struggle with a deadly opioid epidemic is migrating to the workplace.
The Times (Ireland) - Drinks firms ‘must accept public health bill will hit profits’
A campaign group has accused business bodies of delaying the alcohol bill and attacked criticism of the government for progressing the legislation.

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Alcohol News - 50/2017

ERR News (Estonia/EU) - Eurocare applauds Estonian EU presidency's policy regarding alcohol abuse
European alcohol policy alliance Eurocare recognized the Estonian presidency's "courage and persistence" that led to the adoption of the Council Conclusions on cross-border aspects in alcohol policy, making another attempt at tackling the abuse of alcohol.
EurekAlert (USA) - Alcohol taxes are too low, have not kept up with inflation
State alcohol excise taxes are typically only a few cents per drink and have not kept pace with inflation, according to a new study in the January issue of the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs.
CBC.ca (Canada) - Wasted lives: The impact of policy on alcohol consumption and addiction
Alcohol sales bring in more money to the provincial government than natural gas royalties, forestry revenue or tobacco taxes, but some experts argue the social and healthcare costs outweigh the profits.
The West Australian (Australia) - Booze ban: Documents reveal police plan for toughest alcohol restrictions in the Pilbara
Hard-drinking Pilbara mining towns could be hit with some of the toughest liquor restrictions in the State if a controversial police plan to reduce alcohol-related violence in the region is given the go-ahead.
Read more
ERR News (Estonia) -
Bill to further restrict alcohol sales eased in Riigikogu
A bill of amendments to the Alcohol Act and Advertising Act set to further restrict Estonia's alcohol policy, which passed first reading in the Riigikogu in March, has since been eased significantly in the Riigikogu, daily Postimees writes.
Radio New Zealand (New Zealand) - New Caledonia campaigns against alcohol abuse
The New Caledonian government has adopted a comprehensive plan to counter excessive drinking, which has been identified as a key problem.
EURACTIV (EU) - Combat digestive diseases with tighter controls on the alcohol and food industry
You are what you eat, the saying goes, but what about what we drink? Dietary regulations across Europe need to be stricter if digestive disease rates are to fall, writes Thierry Ponchon.
Read more
Harvard Health -
Is there a link between alcohol and skin cancer?
Patients are always elated when you can recommend an enjoyable, health-improving, recreational activity. As a runner, my favorite “prescription” while pregnant was exercise!
ERR News (Latvia/Estonia) - Latvian health minister praises Estonia's alcohol policy
In a letter to Minister of Health and Labour Jevgeni Ossinovski, Latvian Minister for Health Anda Čakša commended Estonia's alcohol policy and said that Latvia is likewise planning to raise its alcohol excise duty.
thejournal.ie (Ireland) - Two people died every day in 2015 over drug use with alcohol the number one drug
ALMOST TWO PEOPLE in Ireland died each day in 2015 as a result of overdoses, trauma or medical causes linked to drug use.
GhanaWeb (Ghana) - FDA bans advertisement of alcohol in the media effective 2018
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) effective 1st January 2018, has banned both advertisement and Live Presenter Mention(LPM)of alcoholic beverages in the media before 8pm.
Huffington Post South Africa (South Africa) - How Alcohol Plays A Role In Gender-based Violence --- And What Must Happen Now
How many times do you hear about alcohol playing a role in a Gender-Based Violence (GBV)? In our view, far too many times not to have a frank discussion about it.
The Baltic Course (Estonia) - Statistics shows significant drop in health damage from alcohol in Estonia
A significant reduction in the health damage caused by alcohol has taken place in Estonia in 2017 compared with 2016, as mortality numbers, the number of crimes committed by people under the influence of alcohol and of road accidents involving a drunk driver have all decreased, provisional figures by the National Institute for Health Development and the police suggest.
Minneapolis Star Tribune (USA) - Baby boomers are becoming 'baby boozers' as reliance on alcohol and drugs rises
Maybe it wasn’t rock bottom, but Clare Mannion can’t imagine how it could have been worse, finding herself, as she did, drinking airplane bottles of vodka in her closet.

Sunday, December 10, 2017

FASD News - 49/2017

Daily Telegraph (Australia) - Judges to consider affect of ‘alcohol during pregnancy’ on young offenders’ behaviour
JUDGES are being taught about disabilities caused by mothers who drink while pregnant as part of a new push to give offenders with such disorders lighter sentences.
HuffPost UK (UK) - RIP Sir Noel The Christmas Dog - An FASD Love Story
Four years ago, our youngest son was struggling. He was in Year 5. At great cost to himself he gave everything he had at school, at home, in clubs. But he walked every day in world that didn’t understand him.
Newcastle Herald (Australia) - Booze the mother of all problems for unborn babies
WOMEN who drink should be using contraception to avoid having brain damaged babies, a Newcastle public health forum heard on Tuesday night.
Charity Today News (UK) - NOFAS-UK CEO speaks of her delight at being an official part of #UKCharityWeek 2017
The National Organisation for Foetal Alcohol Syndrome-UK (NOFAS-UK) has today spoke of its ‘honour’ to be a part an official part of#UKCharityWeek, 4-10 December 2017.
St. Albert Gazette (Canada) - ‘Dry 9’ campaign dedicated to alcohol-free pregnancies
A new campaign is helping women who are pregnant or who are trying to conceive stay away from liquor. Dry 9, created by the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC), provides resources and information on alcohol and pregnancy.
Science Daily - Lithium chloride blunts brain damage linked to fetal alcohol syndrome
A single dose of lithium chloride, a drug used to treat bipolar disease and aggression, blocks the sleep disturbances, memory loss, and learning problems tied to fetal alcohol syndrome, new experiments in mice show.
My Eastern Shore (USA) - Researcher speaks about helping children affected by substance abuse
Local social workers, child care providers and educators attended a conference to learn about supporting caregivers of children affected by substance abuse, Friday, Dec. 1, at Chesapeake College.
Toronto Star (Canada) - After a girl committed 71 violent incidents in 10 months, children’s aid and this caregiver agreed the group home program wasn’t working
Her sometimes epic outbursts — fuelled by symptoms of fetal alcohol syndrome — were described in reports sent to the children’s ministry whenever a serious incident occurs in Ontario involving a child in care.
Todays Parent - I said I wouldn’t adopt a child with FASD—and now I have four
It was a scorching day so I’d taken my children to a splash pad. I was watching my daughters dancing in the water, when out of the corner of my eye I caught sight of my nine-year-old son, Allan, dart into the parking lot. He ran right in front of a moving car, which had to swerve not to hit him. I bolted over and grabbed him by the arm.
Nutrition Research Institute - Why Iron Man’s mother didn’t drink alcohol during pregnancy
In the Marvel movie Iron Man, Tony Stark (Iron Man) is a genius inventor who creates a suit of armor, giving himself enhanced strength and the ability to fly.

UPCOMING
EUFASD - European Conference on FASD 2018
The call for abstracts is now open. The deadline is Friday, March 16, 2018, at midnight, Berlin time.
Children in Scotland - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD): Supporting children and young people (26/02/2018)
This workshop gives insight to the wide range of conditions encompassed by FASD and explores practical ways in which to support children and young people affected by them.

VIDEOS and MATERIALS
AGLC - Dry9 | Just a Sip
Are you expecting or planning to be? No amount of alcohol is proven safe to drink while pregnant so do a #Dry9 and encourage your friends and family to support you and do a Dry9 too.
AGLC - Dry9 | Previous Generation
AGLC - Dry9 | Co-Parent to Be
AGLC - Dry9 | Persistent Friend
Courthouse Libraries BC - Working with Clients with FASD - Webinar Recording
This webinar is aimed at legal advocates and poverty law lawyers. Effective communication with a client can be difficult to achieve under ideal circumstances, let alone if your client has fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

RESEARCH
University of Canterbury - The challenge of supporting children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder in Aotearoa New Zealand: A narrative literature review”
The drinking culture of ANZ has developed since colonisation. Alcohol consumption has cost not only the individual and their families, but communities and ANZ society as a whole although the MoH (2016) has released the FASD Action Plan 2016-2019 with a budget attached to implement the plan, gaps have been identified.
Toxics - Embryonic Ethanol Exposure Affects Early- and Late-Added Cardiac Precursors and Produces Long-Lasting Heart Chamber Defects in Zebrafish
Drinking mothers expose their fetuses to ethanol, which produces birth defects: craniofacial defects, cognitive impairment, sensorimotor disabilities and organ deformities, collectively termed as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Ohio State University - Neuroimmune mechanisms of learning and memory deficits in a rat model of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) afflict up to 5% of American school-age children, many of whom experience pervasive impairments in behavior and cognition. While the impact of these impairments on quality of life may be severe, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms are not well understood.
Pediatrics - Computer-Aided Recognition of Facial Attributes for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
We found there was an increased diagnostic accuracy for ARND via our computer-aided method. As this category has been historically difficult to diagnose, we believe our experiment demonstrates that facial dysmorphology novel analysis technology can potentially improve ARND diagnosis by introducing a standardized metric for recognizing FASD-associated facial anomalies.
Journal of Mental Health and Addiction - Educational Services for Youth with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Caregivers’ Perspectives
The purpose of this study was to identify services that caregivers of youth with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder believe would help youth with FASD succeed in school.
University of Alberta - Examining Practicing Teachers’ Cognitions and Emotions Towards Students with FASD Using Attribution Theory
The importance of teachers’ emotions has been well-established in educational research, particularly when confronted with challenging student behaviour.
University of Alberta - Evaluating an Attributional Retraining Intervention to Increase Pre-service Teachers’ Self-Efficacy in Working with Students with FASD: A Mixed Methods Study
Children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) can experience complex social, emotional, behavioural, and academic needs at school that necessitate the support of prepared and efficacious teachers.
Neuropharmacology - Low doses of prenatal ethanol exposure and maternal separation alter HPA axis function and ethanol consumption in adult male rats
Adverse maternal behaviors during pregnancy and unfavorable postnatal experiences during development are associated with an increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders, as well as, a vulnerability to alcohol addiction in adulthood.
Alcoholism - Prenatal alcohol exposure increases histamine H3 receptor-mediated inhibition of glutamatergic neurotransmission in rat dentate gyrus
We have reported that prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE)-induced deficits in dentate gyrus (DG) long-term potentiation (LTP) and memory are ameliorated by the histamine H3 receptor inverse agonist ABT-239.
Supervision of Family Therapy and Systemic Practice - An Approach to Supervision Practice with Therapists Who Work with Pregnant Substance-Abusing Women in Voluntary and Compulsory Treatment Settings
This chapter is written for supervisors and psychotherapists who work with pregnant substance abusing women in the Specialist Health Service in Norway.
Neurology - Evaluation of the child with microcephaly and the Fetal Alcoholic Syndrome (FAS)
The AAN and the Practice Committee of the Child Neurology Society made three statements regarding the evaluation of the child with microcephaly including: neuroimaging is useful in identifying structural causes; targeted genetic testing when clinical or imaging abnormalities suggest a specific diagnosis; and screening for coexistent conditions such as cerebral palsy or epilepsy.
UCT - NEW EVIDENCE FOR THE VALIDITY OF THREE INFANT COGNITIVE MARKERS OF FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDERS
Identifying cognitive deficits early in development in high-risk populations, such as infants with heavy prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE), is crucial to developing effective early interventions.
Brain Sciences - Long Term Depression in Rat Hippocampus and the Effect of Ethanol during Fetal Life
Alcohol (ethanol) disturbs cognitive functions including learning and memory in humans, non-human primates, and laboratory animals such as rodents.

IN OTHER LANGUAGES
halloherne (Germany) - Alkoholschädigung bei Pflegekindern
Westfalen. Die Landschaftsverbände Westfalen-Lippe (LWL) und Rheinland (LVR) haben eine Arbeitshilfe für Fachleute und Pflegeeltern herausgegeben, die Kinder mit vorgeburtlichen Schäden durch Alkohol betreuen.
Der Neue Wiesentbote (Germany) - Interaktive, erlebnisorientierte Ausstellung „ZERO“ zum Thema „Alkohol und Schwangerschaft“ in Forchheim
Alkohol in der Schwangerschaft schadet dem ungeborenen Kind. Das ist allgemein bekannt. Dennoch werden in Deutschland jedes Jahr über 10.000 Kinder mit FASD, der Fetalen Alkohol Spektrums-Störung (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), geboren.
Gość Opolski (Poland) - Gdy dziecko rodzi się z FAS
To problem, który nie dotyczy tylko kobiet alkoholiczek, ale dotyczy całych społeczeństw, w których używa się alkoholu - tłumaczy psycholog Teresa Jadczak-Szumiło.
ondanews (Italy) - Farmacia 3.0 – alcol in gravidanza, gravi rischi per feto e discendenza
Stando ai dati forniti dall’ISS (Istituto Superiore di Sanità) più del 50% delle donne in gravidanza mantiene il medesimo consumo di bevande alcoliche che teneva prima di rimanere incinta, superando tranquillamente due bicchieri di vino o birra al giorno.

Wednesday, December 6, 2017

Alcohol News - 49/2017

The Independent (UK) – For those coping with alcohol addiction, Christmas is one of the toughest times of the year
During the run-up to Christmas, alcohol consumption spirals and booze-soaked TV scheduling is partly to blame.
thenews.pl (Poland) - Poles among EU's biggest spenders on alcohol: Eurostat
Poles are among the European Union’s biggest spenders when it comes to alcoholic beverages, a report has found.
Eurostat (EU) - Household spending on alcohol close to €130 billion
In 2016, households in the European Union (EU) spent 1.6% of their total consumption expenditure on alcoholic beverages. This represents a total expenditure of almost €130 billion, equivalent to 0.9% of EU GDP or over €250 per EU inhabitant. It should be noted that this does not include alcoholic beverages paid for in restaurants and hotels.
Globalnews.ca (Canada) - ‘Dry 9’ campaign urges Albertans to support alcohol-free pregnancies
With the holiday season comes festivities and parties, which can make avoiding alcohol a challenge for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive.
NDTV - Consuming Over 14 Units Of Alcohol Can Cause Skin Problems: Study
The health effects of drinking alcohol regularly are innumerable. Several studies have shown how heavy drinking can lead to a number of problems including liver disease, blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and digestive problems.
CBC.ca (Canada) - Wasted lives: The cost of alcohol addiction
The ongoing opioid crisis and rash of overdoses from illicit drugs has been at the forefront of many British Columbian's minds, but the biggest, least discussed addiction on the rise in the province is a legal substance: alcohol.
Stuff.co.nz (New Zealand) - Higher alcohol levels in craft beer catching drivers out
Planning on having a couple of beers this party season? Then keep an eye on how strong your craft beer is if you plan to drive.
The Copenhagen Post (Denmark) - Helping kids in homes where alcohol abuse is the norm
Growing up in a family dogged by alcohol problems can have serious consequences for the rest of your life – as well as blighting your childhood. However, many people are hesitant to intervene if they are worried about a child living in such a family.
The Independent – Liver disease to become biggest killer by 2020 with alcohol and obesity to blame
Liver disease is set to overtake heart disease as the top cause of premature deaths by 2020, a new study reveals.
TheFix.com (Australia) - Australian Sports Leagues Speak Out Against Alcohol Advertising Ban
A proposal that aims to reduce alcohol consumption in South Wales is being met with pushback by the leagues who stand to lose financially if it becomes law.
Healthline - We’ve Crunched the Numbers… Here’s How Alcohol Can Increase Your Cancer Risk
Drinking alcohol increases your risk of many types of cancer, whether you drink a lot or relatively little.
Medical Xpress - Large study links alcohol misuse to subsequent injury risk in young people
The immediate effects of drinking too much alcohol are obvious, unpleasant and can even be life threatening, but a new study has shown that young people who drink excessively, to the degree that they are admitted into hospital because of it, are also at a much higher risk of sustaining injuries in the following 6 months.
Daily Telegraph (Australia) - Judges to consider affect of ‘alcohol during pregnancy’ on young offenders’ behaviour
JUDGES are being taught about disabilities caused by mothers who drink while pregnant as part of a new push to give offenders with such disorders lighter sentences.
Irish Examiner (Ireland) - RSA: Almost 40% of road accidents down to alcohol in run-up to Christmas
Alcohol accounts for almost 40% of fatal road crashes in the run-up to Christmas, according to the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Alcohol News - 48/2017

Medscape - Different Alcohol Types Trigger Specific Emotions
Vodka, gin, whiskey, and other spirits are more likely to increase aggression compared with other alcoholic beverages. In addition, other alcohol types elicit other specific emotions, a large international survey shows.
ThinkProgress (USA) - The public health problem buried in the Senate GOP’s tax bill
As alcohol-linked deaths continue to rise, the Senate is expected to vote on a tax bill this week that would exacerbate this public health problem. Tucked away in the Senate’s tax bill is the “Craft Beverage Modernization” provision, which would cut federal excise taxes on alcohol producers, particularly small brewers.
ITV News (Wales) - Minimum unit price for alcohol 'will save lives'
The introduction of a minimum unit price for alcohol in Wales will have the greatest impact on hazardous and harmful drinkers, according to new research.
The Sydney Morning Herald (Australia) - Harm from alcohol misuse rises as historic recommendations ignored, study finds
Australians are drinking 25 per cent less alcohol than they were 40 years ago, but it's causing more harm than ever, a new study says.
Birmingham Mail (UK) - This is how much alcohol abuse cost the NHS in Birmingham and Sandwell
Alcohol abuse in Sandwell and Birmingham costs the NHS a staggering £72.1 million a year, new figures have revealed.
ERR News (Estonia) - Estonian government halves size of next planned alcohol excise duty hike
The Estonian government on Thursday evening decided to halve the next planned alcohol excise duty hike on beers, ciders and strong liquor, which is to take place in February.
CTV News (Canada) - In a Canadian first, Yukon rolls out cancer warning labels on alcohol
Yukon has become the first jurisdiction in Canada to begin adding warning labels on bottles of wine, beer and liquor, to advise consumers about safe consumption levels and to remind drinkers that alcohol can cause cancer.
Canadian Lawyer Magazine (Canada) - New drinking and driving rules bring mandatory alcohol screening to Canada
In May, the federal government tabled Bill C-46, which would amend the Criminal Code for impaired driving offences. The proposed changes come on the eve of the government’s legalization of recreational cannabis use, and they include new “legal limit” drug offences, as well as mandatory alcohol screening.
Economic Times (India) - Ban on alcohol bringing positive change: Bihar CM Nitish Kumar
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today claimed that ban on alcohol has brought a positive change in the society and his government was committed to punishing those who violate the prohibition law.
Herald Sun (Australia) - Push for mandatory warning labels on alcohol for pregnant and breastfeeding women
A PUSH for mandatory health warnings on alcohol for pregnant and breastfeeding women will be supported by Victoria at a meeting of health and food chiefs tomorrow.
Diabetes.co.uk - Metabolic defects and alcohol combined linked to increased risk of liver disease
A new study has found that features of the metabolic syndrome and alcohol consumption are linked with increased risk of developing liver disease.
Vanguard (Nigeria) - 90 per cent of road accidents caused by alcohol, hard drugs – FRSC
The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) has said that 90 per cent of road accidents in the country was as a result of alcoholic drinks, hard drugs among others factors.
Newstalk ZB (New Zealand) - Disappointment over Christchurch council's decision to shelve alcohol policy
Canterbury's Medical Officer of Health is disappointed the council's bent the knee to the alcohol industry.
The Daily Campus (USA) - Enough is enough: stopping alcohol-related fraternity deaths
Matthew Ellis was a newly initiated Phi Kappa Psi member at Texas State Nov. 12. Only hours after his initiation into the brotherhood, he was pronounced dead by medical authorities. Preliminary investigations suggest alcohol poisoning as the cause of death.

Sunday, November 26, 2017

FASD News 47/2017

Voxy (New Zealand) - Spotlight on parenting a child with FASD
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will be in the spotlight again this week when international expert Jeff Noble gives insight and hope to New Zealand parents, caregivers and professionals dealing with fetal alcohol and its effects daily.
CBC.ca (Canada) - N.W.T. MLAs call for formal fetal alcohol spectrum disorder strategy, health minister says no need
The Yellowknife Association for Community Living began its fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) awareness campaign on Friday, as some MLAs called on the government to implement a formal strategy to combat the spectrum of disorders in the territory.
The West Australian (Australia) - WA govt wants alcohol pregnancy warning
Alcohol sold in Australia should be labelled with mandatory health warnings for pregnant and breastfeeding women, the West Australian government says.
Minneapolis Star Tribune (USA) - Minnesota scientists deploy high-tech tools to map damage from fetal alcohol
Prenatal alcohol exposure affects about 7,000 newborns in Minnesota each year, and its effects remain deeply misunderstood.
The Ohio State University News (USA) - Ibuprofen may block damage from fetal-alcohol exposure
An anti-inflammatory drug may have the potential to stall the damaging effects of alcohol on the fetal brain, a new study suggests.
The Press West Coast (New Zealand) - Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder – 'it can only take one drink'
It can only take one or two drinks to damage an unborn baby's brain. That's the message CAPS Hauraki wants to get across to young women in an effort to reduce the high rates of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder [FASD] in children.
TVNZ (New Zealand) - Fetal alcohol syndrome misunderstood and under-diagnosed, says expert
"Millions and millions of people around the world" live with fetal alcohol syndrome, and an international expert says the disorder is often misunderstood.
Devon Live - Lee had no idea why he was a criminal with a life out of control - until he discovered what his mother had done
A Devon man who spent years feeling his life was out of control, living as a criminal and attempting suicide more than once, had no idea why until he was diagnosed with a condition contracted in the womb.
YUKON Government (Canada) - Final report of the FASD prevalence study of corrections population released
The final report of a three-year research study into Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) prevalence in Yukon’s corrections population was released today.
Telethon Kids (Australia) - Call for mandatory pregnancy health warning labelling on alcoholic beverages
Perth’s Telethon Kids Institute has welcomed the McGowan Government’s call today for the immediate implementation of mandatory pregnancy health warning labelling on all alcoholic beverages sold in Australia.

VIDEOS and MATERIALS
Münstermann (Germany) - FAS(D) perfekt!
Der kleine Mo hat FAS(D). Er wohnt in einer Pflegefamilie, die gut auf ihn aufpasst. Sie hilft ihm bei den alltäglichen Dingen, z.B. wenn er bei Schnee und Eis ohne Jacke nach draußen geht oder wenn er viele Dinge schnell wieder vergisst.
Kati Morton - What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome?
NOFAS-UK FASD Support & Awareness - FASD Wellbeing Workshop Dr Cassie Jackson & Andy Jackson
On 28 October 2017, the first NOFAS-UK FASD Wellbeing Workshop, 'Living in the Here and Now,' featured Dr Cassie Jackson, Highly Specialist Clinical Psychologist, and Andy Jackson, member National FASD Advisory Committee. The workshop featured these presentations, followed by Q&A
MOFAS - What is FASD?
MOFAS - What does FASD have to do with equity?
Telethon Kids Institute - Sharyn/Make FASD History
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is caused when a Fetus is exposed to alcohol during pregnancy, resulting in lifelong damage. This silent epidemic affects thousands right across Australia. This is their story.
and
Susan Wendel - FASD and Diasnosis

RESEARCH
Metabolic Brain Disease - Hippocampal neurogenesis in the C57BL/6J mice at early adulthood following prenatal alcohol exposure
We examined the effect of chronic prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) on the process of adult neurogenesis in C57BL/6J mice at early adulthood (PND 56).
Canadian Journal of Criminology and Criminal Justice - A Unique Response to Offenders with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Perceptions of the Alexis FASD Justice Program
Despite our knowledge that individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) are over-represented and vulnerable in the justice system, there is a critical paucity of research related to supporting offenders with FASD.
European Journal of Health Law - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders in Adults: Ethical and Legal Perspectives: An Overview on FASD for Professionals
Addictive Substances and Neurological Disease - Frontal Lobe Dysfunction After Developmental Alcohol Exposure: Implications From Animal Models
A leading cause of preventable neurological and physical impairment, prenatal exposure to alcohol is clinically diagnosable as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs).
Global Qualitative Nursing Research - Health Care Students’ Attitudes About Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy: Responses to Narrative Vignettes
This article explores medical, midwifery, and nurse practitioner students’ attitudes about women who may consume alcohol throughout their pregnancies.
Canadian Journal of Public Health - Ethical challenges in FASD prevention: Scientific uncertainty, stigma, and respect for women’s autonomy.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a leading form of neurodevelopmental delay in Canada, affecting an estimated 3000 babies per year. FASD involves a range of disabilities that entail significant costs to affected individuals, families, and society.
Addictive Substances and Neurological Disease - Antenatal Alcohol and Histological Brain Disturbances
Alcohol consumption during pregnancy induces specific disorders in offspring that are combined under the term fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), which is a part of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs).
Journal of Midwifery and Women´s Health - Screening Women for At-Risk Alcohol Use: An Introduction to Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) in Women's Health
A significant number of women engage in at-risk drinking behavior, or heavy alcohol use. Women are especially at risk for the negative impact of excessive alcohol consumption secondary to gender differences in body structure, chemistry, and alcohol absorption.
Journal of Drug Abuse - Commentary on How Could I Have Done This? Thoughts of Mothers of Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Biological mothers who give birth to children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome are an underserved and under-researched population.
Alcohol and Alcoholism - Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Suspected Hearing Impairment Among Children: A Population-based Retrospective Cohort Study
This study aimed to examine the association between prenatal alcohol exposure and hearing impairment among Japanese children using early childhood health check-up data.
ADC Fetal and Neonatal - Tobacco, alcohol and illicit drugs during pregnancy and risk of neuroblastoma: systematic review
Smoking, alcohol or illicit drugs during pregnancy might play a role in the development of neuroblastoma. However, well-designed studies are needed to assess whether these exposures are causal and whether time period during pregnancy, dose or co-consumption of substances is critical.
POLICY DESIGN AND EVALUATION LAB - Computer Games to Improve Behavioral Regulation in FASD-affected Children
The research team developed a treatment for children with FASD-related impairments that was demonstrated to be effective for children in the age range of 5–10 years in a pilot study in the United States.

IN OTHER LANGUAGES
Rzeczpospolita (Poland) - Ciąża wolna od alkoholu - RPD pyta o podjęte działania ministrów rodziny, zdrowia i sprawiedliwości
Nie ma dawki alkoholu, którą kobieta może wypić w ciąży bez ryzyka, że nie wyrządzi to szkody jej dziecku – pisze Rzecznik Praw Dziecka Marek Michalak w kolejnym wystąpieniu do Minister Rodziny, Pracy i Polityki Społecznej, Ministra Zdrowia i Ministra Sprawiedliwości. Pyta, czy coś robią, by chronić dzieci przed skutkami picia alkoholu przez matki.
Rynek Zdrowia (Poland) - Uszkodzenie alkoholowe płodu jest jedną z najcięższych wad rozwojowych
Do poradni zdrowia zgłaszają się matki, które urodziły nawet pięcioro dzieci z płodowym zespołem alkoholowym, bo nie podjęto żadnych kroków, aby po pierwszym dziecku z FASD sytuacja się nie powtórzyła; dzieci te nie mają też wystarczającego wsparcia - alarmowano na konferencji dotyczącej FASD.
t-online.de (Germany) - Baby kommt mit drei Promille im Blut auf die Welt
Eine 34-Jährige hat in Polen ein Baby mit drei Promille im Blut auf die Welt gebracht. Dem Jungen drohen Langzeitfolgen.
FOCUS Online (Germany) - Interaktive, erlebnisorientierte Ausstellung „ZERO“ zum Thema „Alkohol und Schwangerschaft“
Das ist allgemein bekannt. Dennoch werden in Deutschland jedes Jahr über 10.000 Kinder mit FASD, der Fetalen Alkohol Spektrums-Störung (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), geboren. Damit ist FASD die häufigste nicht genetisch bedingte körperliche, geistige und seelische Behinderung bei Neugeborenen.
Münstermann (Germany) - FAS(D) perfekt!
Der kleine Mo hat FAS(D). Er wohnt in einer Pflegefamilie, die gut auf ihn aufpasst. Sie hilft ihm bei den alltäglichen Dingen, z.B. wenn er bei Schnee und Eis ohne Jacke nach draußen geht oder wenn er viele Dinge schnell wieder vergisst.

Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Alcohol News - 47/2017

Telegraph.co.uk (Scotland) - Minimum alcohol price introduced in Scotland on May 1
Scotland’s minimum price for alcohol will start on May 1 next year, the SNP’s Health Minister has announced amid pressure on her to increase her planned cost of 50p per unit.
News-Medical.net - Season of festivities can increase opportunities to overindulge in alcohol
With the end of the year approaching, it is the season of festivities. From work parties to friends and family gatherings, all of these celebrations can lead to increased opportunities to drink alcohol, which can make it easy to overindulge.
NPR (USA/Japan) - Alcohol Banned For U.S. Forces In Japan After Fatal Car Crash
After a Japanese man was killed early Sunday in a car crash involving a U.S. service member, U.S. forces in Japan are prohibited indefinitely from purchasing or drinking alcohol.
Irish Examiner (Ireland) - 900 diagnosed annually with alcohol-related cancer: HSE
In this European Action on Alcohol Awareness Week, the HSE wants everyone to be aware that drinking alcohol increases the risk of developing cancer.
Science Daily - Cultural values can be a strong predictor of alcohol consumption
New research shows that countries with populations that value autonomy and harmony tend to have higher average levels of alcohol consumption than countries with more traditional values, such as hierarchy and being part of a collective.
Helsinki Times (Finland) - NCP: Alcohol retail de-regulation a condition for raising alcohol tax
The National Coalition is only prepared to raise the alcohol tax if the maximum alcohol content for beverages sold at grocery shops is raised from 4.7 to 5.5 per cent, reveals Jukka Kopra, the first deputy chairperson of the National Coalition Parliamentary Group.
Belfast Telegraph (Northern Ireland) - Northern Ireland chief medical officer backs minimum alcohol pricing
The chief medical officer has supported the minimum pricing of alcohol in Northern Ireland. Supreme Court justices have already given their backing to the controversial measure in Scotland.
The Scotsman (Scotland) - Alison Douglas: Take pride in the defeat of Big Alcohol
The decision by the UK Supreme Court to dismiss the Scotch Whisky Association’s appeal against minimum unit pricing is a landmark victory for public health.
STV News (Scotland) - More than 24,000 Scots taken to hospital over drinking
More than 24,000 Scots were treated in hospital for alcohol-related problems last year, new figures show. People from the most deprived areas are nearly eight times more likely to need help, according to the NHS.
Medical Xpress - Young people often can't tell the strength of alcoholic drinks, study reveals
Researchers from Kingston University have warned that young people could be at risk of consuming more alcohol than they can handle, after a study found they are often unable to detect how strong their drinks are.
Guardian (Nigeria) - ‘Alcohol leading cause of fatal boat accidents’
The Managing Director, Workplace Safety Nigeria Limited, Felix Nlerum, has faulted the reckless drinking of alcohol by boat riders, describing it as a major cause of accidents on Nigerian waters.
EU Reporter (EU) - European Awareness Week on Alcohol Related Harm (#AWARH17)
Now in its 5th year, the European Awareness Week on Alcohol Related Harm (AWARH) takes place from 20-24 November 2017, with various activities being carried out under the theme of ‘Alcohol and Cancer’.
The Connexion (France) - Added alcohol immobiliser penalty for drink drivers
Trial that allows authorities to force drivers convicted of drink-driving to install specialised immobilisers on their vehicles extended to a fourth department.

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Alcohol News - 46/2017

The Independent (Scotland) - Scotland to become first country with minimum price for alcohol sales
Scotland is set to become the first country in the world with a minimum price for alcohol sales after the UK’s highest court rejected an appeal from Scotch whisky manufacturers.
Cancer Research UK - Cancer Research UK develops alcohol tracker for Amazon Alexa
Cancer Research UK has created an Amazon Alexa Skill to allow users to track their alcohol consumption and help raise awareness of the link between alcohol and cancer. The My Alcohol Tracker* Skill has been launched to mark alcohol awareness week from Monday 13th November.
ERR News (Estonia) - Finance minister weighs calling off next planned alcohol excise duty hike
Minister of Finance Toomas Tõniste (IRL) has said that he has been keeping an eye on alcohol excise duty receipts and is considering proposing to call off the next planned alcohol excise duty hike, which is scheduled to take place next February.
Irish Times (Ireland) - Alcohol Bill enactment could be delayed until next year
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has conceded that the controversial legislation to reduce national alcohol intake may not now be enacted until next year.
The Guardian (UK) - The killer on Britain’s streets – super-strength alcohol
Lee, Martin and Zac are discussing the geography of super-strength alcohol, in a hostel for the homeless in Vauxhall, south London.
Technology Networks - Frequent Alcohol Drinking Kills New Brain Cells in Adults
Researchers from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston recently discovered that alcohol killed the stem cells residing in adult mouse brains. Because the brain stems cells create new nerve cells and are important to maintaining normal cognitive function, this study possibly opens a door to combating chronic alcoholism.
myGC.com.au - Drinking alcohol when trying to fall pregnant could increase child’s risk of obesity
Planning to have a baby? New research has put forward another reason for mums-to-be to avoid alcohol – to minimise the chance of your baby becoming obese later in life.
News-Medical.net - Smoking and alcohol consumption in OECD countries – country breakdown
Both smoking and alcohol consumption have been linked to several deadly diseases include coronary heart disease, ischemic heart disease, strokes, diabetes, several cancers, liver diseases etc. Smoking is directly associated with lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
NDTV - Alcohol Consumption May Trigger Insomnia in Adolescents
Excessive drinking has long been linked to triggering a host of ailments. A team of American experts suggest that alcohol consumption during teenage may trigger sleeplessness and insomnia.
Daily Star - Little known danger of binge drinking exposed – you won’t believe the shocking side effect
Most people are familiar with the after-effects of a heavy night of drinking, but bingeing on alcohol can do much more damage than just a hangover.
HuffPost UK (UK) - Alcohol Awareness Week: How To Help A Loved One You Think Is Drinking Too Much
For many of us, drinking alcohol is part and parcel of socialising with friends or relaxing after work, meaning we often forget it’s a potentially debilitating drug.
The Courier (UK) - Impact of alcohol on families is too high says NHS Tayside
Tayside health chiefs are working to make vital changes to the region’s hugely damaging drinking culture.
Irish Times (Ireland) - Alcohol marketing expert puts onus on Government to avert crisis
An expert on international alcohol marketing has said correct government policy intervention can prevent a public health crisis.
The42 (Ireland) - It's time for sport to call time on alcohol sponsorship
That’s not just a statement of the bleeding obvious. It’s also the view of the good folk at CopyClear, a body the Irish advertising and drinks industries set up back in 2003 to self-regulate the marketing and promotion of alcohol.
Bendigo Advertiser (Australia) - Alcohol Policy Coalition raises 'alcohol harm zone' to curb harm, including alcohol-related family violence
IT might be Victoria’s third largest regional city, but the rate of alcohol-related family violence in Bendigo outstrips those of both Ballarat and Geelong.

Sunday, November 12, 2017

FASD News - 45/2017

CBC.ca (Canada) - 'Very little is actually being done': Corrections Canada funded just 7 FASD assessments last year
A young Indigenous man sat in a Winnipeg courtroom at the end of August, staring intently at his red running shoes, occasionally fidgeting with his shirt.
The Northern Daily Leader (Australia) - Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Carer calls for extra support
A Tamworth grandmother and full-time carer is urging the Department of Education and the community to take more action in preventing, treating, and supporting children born with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, including the implementation of exclusive class rooms.
BuzzFeed News (Australia) - This Is How Aboriginal Women Have Been Tackling The Effects Of Drinking During Pregnancy
Two decades ago a group of Aboriginal women from Rockhampton in Central Queensland realised the harm that drinking during pregnancy was having on the next generation.
ABC Online (Australia) - How three women tackled foetal alcohol spectrum disorder in their community
Three Aboriginal women from central Queensland fought for years to have foetal alcohol spectrum disorder recognised in their community.
HuffPost UK (UK) - New Ofsted Report Slamming SEND Provision Is No Surprise To Parents Of Those With FASD
A new Ofsted report on how children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are being treated in our schools validates every parent of a child with a Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) who has struggled, cajoled, begged, and demanded to get their children proper support in school.
HuffPost UK (UK) - My Advice To Parents Thinking About Adopting A Child With Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Adopting a child with a Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is life changing, no doubt about it. But so is adopting any child.
Read more
Toledo Blade (USA) - Sounding the alarm on prenatal alcohol exposure
When Kathy Mitchell was starting her family in the early 1970s, conversations about prenatal health went differently than they do today. In the era of sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll, she recalled, no doctor or well-meaning family member ever thought to warn the young mother against the dangers of drinking alcohol while pregnant.
The Siasat Daily (India) - Mothers-to-be, take note! Alcohol during pregnancy may put babies at risk of anxiety
Numerous studies have shown that drinking alcohol during pregnancy negatively impacts the baby in ways that can also be massively damaging.

UPCOMING
EUFASD - European Conference on FASD 2018. The call for papers is now open
The call for abstracts is now open. The deadline is Friday, March 16, 2018, at midnight, Berlin time.

VIDEOS and MATERIALS
drinktank - Louise Gray shares insights from her GAPC2017 presentation
At GAPC2017, Louise Gray, Executive Officer and Chairperson of the National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFASD), shares with us the success and frustrations to improving information, understanding and awareness on FASD in Australia.
mofasorg - MOFAS Pre-proposal Meeting for Chemical Health and Recovery Grants
On behalf of the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), the Minnesota Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (MOFAS) is seeking applicants to provide comprehensive, gender-specific services to pregnant and parenting women known to use or abuse alcohol or other drugs in order to increase the number of toxic-free babies born.
Paras Bliss - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum order Disorders : How Alcohol Affects Fetus
Video on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum order Disorders by Dr. Nupur Shah, Consultant - Fetal Medicine, Paras Bliss.
AlcoholFreePregnancy - NOFAS Webinar: FASD Advocacy: Setting the Stage for 2018
Webinar hosted by Cameron Koob, NOFAS Public Policy Coordinator. Participants in this webinar will learn: The most efficient way to get information to contact their elected representatives and their staff. How to utilize the 2018 midterm campaign media environment to their advantage. How to execute action alerts and mobilize a constituency.
Attitude - Question Time: Living with Foetal Alcohol Syndrome

RESEARCH
Human Reproduction Open - rs10732516 polymorphism at the IGF2/H19 locus associates with a genotype-specific trend in placental DNA methylation and head circumference of prenatally alcohol-exposed newborns
Does prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) affect regulation of the insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2)/H19 locus in placenta and the growth-restricted phenotype of newborns?
Social Pathology and Prevention - Experience With an Identification of Evidence About Mother's Drinking Alcohol During Pregnancy Within a Framework of 4-Digit Code Diagnostics of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder (FASD)
In the system of social work policy, social legal protection and caregiving policy there is no comprehensive system in Slovakia which would record a biological mother's use of alcohol during pregnancy.
Biochemistry and Cell Biology - Postnatal nutritional treatment of neurocognitive deficits in Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Ethanol is the most important teratogen agent in humans. Prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to a wide range of adverse effects, which are broadly termed as Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Studies in Media and Communication - Reframing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Studying Culture to Identify Communication Challenges and Opportunities
Implicit cultural understandings challenge those working to increase public awareness and support for programs to prevent and address fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
Biochemistry and Cell Biology - Preimplantation alcohol exposure and developmental programming of FASD: An epigenetic perspective
Alcohol exposure during in utero development can permanently change the developmental programming of physiological responses, thereby increasing the risk of childhood neurological illnesses and later adverse health outcomes associated with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).
Biochemistry and Cell Biology - Xenopus embryos to study Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, a model for environmental teratogenesis
Vertebrate model systems are central to characterize the outcomes of ethanol exposure and the etiology of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), taking advantage of their genetic and morphological closeness and similarity to humans.
Journal of Nursing Education and Practice - Promoting awareness of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder among health professionals and the public through nursing faculty champions
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) affects all communities and is an underestimated problem worldwide and in China. FASD is the most common preventable cause of intellectual disabilities and behavior problems.
European Journal of Public Health - Evaluation of an FASD Prevention Campaign Using Pregnancy Test Dispensers in Alaska and the Yukon: Ryan Ray
Alcohol use during pregnancy is a leading preventable cause of birth defects and developmental disabilities. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) can lead to lifelong neurodevelopmental defects and disabilities.
Biochemistry and Cell Biology - Review: Detrimental effects of alcohol exposure around conception: putative mechanisms
In western countries, alcohol consumption is widespread in women of reproductive age, and in binge quantities. These countries also continue to have high incidences of unplanned pregnancies, with women often reported to cease drinking after discovering their pregnancy.
YOUR - The Effect of Understanding Fetal Alcohol Syndrome on School Disciplinary Practices
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a neuropsychological disorder caused by prenatal alcohol exposure and has serious consequences for the child, both in terms of physical and social deficiencies.
Alcohol - Enhanced sensitivity to socially facilitating and anxiolytic effects of ethanol in adolescent Sprague Dawley rats following acute prenatal ethanol exposure
Emerging evidence suggests that deficits in social functioning and social anxiety are associated with adolescent alcohol use. Our previous research has shown that acute exposure to a high dose of ethanol on gestational day (G) 12 produces social alterations in adolescent Sprague-Dawley rats.
Biochemistry and Cell Biology - Skeletal muscle and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Skeletal muscle is critical for mobility and many metabolic functions integral to survival and long-term health.
The University of New Mexico - Rodents prenatally exposed to alcohol display sex-dependent differences in spatial extinction learning
Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) is associated with structural and physiological changes that impact the central nervous system and can result in persistent negative consequences in a broad spectrum of cognitive and behavioral domains including deficits in motor behavior, social behavior, and behavioral flexibility.
Child Abuse & Neglect - Prenatal substance exposure diagnosed at birth and infant involvement with child protective services
Infants have the highest rates of maltreatment reporting and entries to foster care. Prenatal substance exposure is thought to contribute to early involvement with child protective services (CPS), yet there have been limited data with which to examine this relationship or variations by substance type.
Reproductive Health - Prevalence of prenatal exposure to substances of abuse: questionnaire versus biomarkers
Alcohol and drugs of abuse consumption in young adults, including women of childbearing age, has experienced significant increase over the past two decades.
Alcoholism - Meta-Analyses of Externalizing Disorders: Genetics or Prenatal Alcohol Exposure?
Externalizing disorders are heritable precursors to alcohol dependence, common in children of alcoholics (COA), and in children with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE).

IN OTHER LANGUAGES
Ärzte Zeitung (Germany) - Wie lässt sich Patienten besser helfen?
Eine neue Publikation erörtert Möglichkeiten, Menschen mit Fetalen Alkohol Spektrumstörungen (FASD) im Rahmen der Sozialen Arbeit noch besser zu helfen.
Kinderaerzte-im-Netz (Germany) - Alkohol im Mutterleib erhöht Suchtgefahr für Kind im späteren Leben
Eine der vielen negativen Konsequenzen, wenn ein Ungeborenes im Mutterleib Alkohol ausgesetzt ist, ist ein erhöhtes Suchtrisiko im späteren Leben des Kindes. Neurowissenschaftler in der Universität am Buffalo Research Institute haben nun die Gründe dafür erforscht.
Gazeta Wyborcza (Poland) - By dzieci nie rodziły się z FAS. Kampania edukacyjna
Koncert charytatywny "Historia jazzu na żywo" rozpocznie zbiórkę na realizację kampanii edukacyjnej o zagrożeniach wynikających z picia alkoholu w ciąży.