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Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Alcohol News - 13/2017

National Law Review (France) - Loi Évin: How Law Makers in France Have Forced Divide Between Alcohol & Sport
Recently, rugby legend Dan Carter made the headlines for all the wrong reasons. After being pulled over by the police on Avenue des Champs-Élysées for speeding, police discovered that he was over the alcohol limit.
AJC.com - Is alcohol really good for your heart?
The idea that alcohol may be good for your heart has been around for a while. While moderate drinking may offer health benefits, drinking more can cause a host of health problems. So should you turn to alcohol to protect your heart?
Baltimore Sun (USA) - Maryland alcohol tax increase linked to drop in drunk driving crashes
Alcohol-related crashes where people were killed or hurt dropped by an annual rate of 6 percent after the state raised the alcohol sales tax in 2011, according to a University of Maryland-led study to be released Monday.
The Bulletin (Belgium) - Stricter regulations to tackle alcohol use among minors
Federal health minister Maggie De Block is introducing stricter rules concerning alcohol use among minors aged 16 to 18. Currently, under-18s are restricted to the consumption of beer and wine. It is illegal for them to drink, buy or be sold spirits.
The Guardian (Australia) - Cricket Australia has dropped the ball on alcohol sponsorship
Late last week, Cricket Australia and Carlton and United Breweries (CUB) announced their 20-year sponsorship deal – estimated to have been worth $65m over five years – had come to an end.
YLE News (Sweden/Finland) - Swedish alcohol monopoly worried about Finns' boozing
The Swedish alcohol monopoly, Systembolaget, has complained about a proposed change in Finnish alcohol law because it might cause Finns to drink more. Finns already drink more than their neighbours in other Nordic countries, and that gap is likely to expand if Finland relaxes the rules on selling alcohol.
Glasgow Daily Times (Scotland) - Glasgow council moves to ban adults providing alcohol access to minors
Glasgow City Council unanimously passed the first reading of an ordinance Monday that makes it illegal for a person with control of a premises to knowingly host, permit or allow a gathering to take place on the premises where at least one minor consumes an alcoholic beverage.
Irish Times (Ireland) - How alcohol may be affecting your health and fitness
Kicking back with a glass of wine sounds like an enjoyable way to boost your health. Pinot noir in hand, you wouldn’t even have to break a sweat. If recent headlines are to be believed, drinking a glass of red is equivalent to an hour in the gym.
Los Angeles Times (USA) - What you need to know about Utah's .05% drinking limit in 7 numbers
Proponents argued the new legal standard will improve public safety, while opponents assailed it as hurting the state’s tourism industry.
Irish Times (Ireland) - Surge in teenage alcohol-related admissions at children’s hospital
There were more than five times as many teenage admissions to one of the State’s main children’s hospitals due to alcohol use last year compared with 2015, new figures show.
STA - Slovenska Tiskovna Agencija (Slovenia) - Alcohol consumption in Slovenia too high for public health
Registered alcohol use in Slovenia increased in 2015 compared to the year before to 11.5 litres of pure alcohol per population above 15, according to data of the National Public Health Institute (NIJZ). Consumption is thus at more than twice the acceptable annual level of five litres per person.
CBC.ca (Canada) - Northwestern Ontario has a drinking problem, health unit finds
People living in the region west of Thunder Bay, including communities such as Kenora, Dryden, Fort Frances, and Sioux Lookout, are more likely to drink heavily than others in the province, according to a new report from the Northwestern Health Unit.
The New Daily (Australia) - ‘Ban all booze ads’: doctors call last drinks on brewers
A wide-ranging ban on the marketing and advertising of alcohol must be placed at the top of measures needed to counter Australia’s binge-drinking culture and alcohol-related harm including crime, assaults and domestic violence, says the Australasian College of Physicians.

Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Alcohol News - 12/2017

Helsinki Times (Finland) - Several ruling-party MPs rebel against alcohol law reform Twenty-eight Members of the Finnish Parliament, including 15 members of the Centre Party, have issued a joint statement calling for amendments to the bill to reform the alcohol legislation of Finland.
BBC News - 'Wide awake drunk' on energy drinks and alcohol mix
Mixing energy drinks with alcohol could be a risky combination, leading to a greater risk of accidents and injuries, research from Canada suggests.
Times of India (India) - Alcohol sensors in state-run buses to curb drunk driving?
The transport department is exploring a new technology developed by a group of engineering students that prevents a drunk driver from plying a public transport bus.
Arizona Daily Sun (USA) - Alcohol often behind child neglect
"Child neglect" is the name of the news piece. Perhaps it should be labeled what it is: "Alcohol addiction leads to bad parenting."
Irish Examiner (Ireland) - Ireland top of the table for drinking at home
Ireland tops the table of 25 countries for people drinking at home before going on a night out — with more than four out of five surveyed engaging in “pre-drinking”.
Vanguard (Nigeria) - NMA says smoking, alcohol consumption major causes of mouth cancer
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has warned against smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol, describing such acts as major causes of mouth cancer.
My Barry's Bay Now (Canada) - SPEED AND ALCOHOL REMAIN BIGGEST FACTORS IN SNOWMOBILE DEATHS
A spike in snowmobile-related deaths in Ontario is prompting the OFSC to remind riders to stay off closed trails and adjust your speed according to trail and weather conditions.
thejournal.ie (Ireland) - Gardaí to monitor public transport in bid to seize alcohol from underage Patrick's Day drinkers
GARDAÍ WILL BE launching a serious crackdown against teenage drinkers this St Patrick’s Day and will be paying particular attention to those bringing alcohol onto public transport.
Citifmonline (Ghana) - Ghana launches National Alcohol Policy
Ghana has launched a National Alcohol Policy after years of working with key stakeholders to combine the fragmented laws that exist on the production, distribution sale, advertisement and consumption of the commodity.
Medical Daily - Alcoholism In The Family: People With Relatives Who Abused Alcohol More Likely To Remember Painful Hangovers
Hangovers are horrible, but the lingering memories of the pain and embarrassment associated with the night before can be even worse. A new study suggests that the ability to vividly remember a hangover, sometimes even months after you’ve made a full recovery, isn’t linked to how much you drink, but rather who is in your family.
thejournal.ie (Ireland) - Almost a third of people who died on the roads in 2014 had alcohol in their system
THE PRELIMINARY FINDINGS of a new report has found that 31% of people who died on Irish roads in 2014 had alcohol in their system at the time of their deaths.
The Union of Grass Valley (USA) - Study: alcohol, tobacco more available than milk, fresh fruit in Nevada County
A recent survey showed 98 percent of 83 random stores surveyed in Nevada County sold sweet, fruity malt liquor beverages also known as Alcopops.
Healio - Long-term heavy alcohol consumption linked to arterial stiffness in men
Consistent heavy alcohol consumption may prematurely age arteries, especially in men, according to findings in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
Irish Examiner (Ireland) - Foetal Alcohol Syndrome: Doctors unaware of dangers
A NATIONAL survey of paediatric doctors reveals a worrying percentage of them are unaware of one of the major causes of preventable developmental delay in children.

Sunday, March 19, 2017

FASD News - 11/2017

Irish Examiner (Ireland) - Foetal Alcohol Syndrome: Doctors unaware of dangers
A NATIONAL survey of paediatric doctors reveals a worrying percentage of them are unaware of one of the major causes of preventable developmental delay in children.
Waikato Times (New Zealand) - Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder – an invisible generation of sufferers
A teenage boy burgles a house, gets caught and is sent straight to bootcamp. The young man is whipped into shape by a daily diet of early-morning starts and army drills.
Stuff.co.nz (New Zealand) - Children's Commissioner calls for universal disability screening for kids at age five
His comments come as new Otago University legal research focuses on Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and a Ministry of Health plan to improve its detection and diagnosis, as well as education for pregnant mothers, gets underway.
Health Essentials from Cleveland Clinic - Why More and More Babies Are Born Addicted
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the incidence of babies born in a state of opioid withdrawal, called neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), rose 383 percent between 2000 and 2012 in 28 states.
Canadian Family (Canada) - How FASD Impacts Us All
While his children have FASD, it is not what defines them. Just like anyone else, they have their strengths and needs.
The Prevention Conversation - MANY WOMEN STILL DRINK ALCOHOL WHEN TRYING TO GET PREGNANT
About half of pregnant women in the United States drink alcohol around the time they become pregnant or in early pregnancy, usually before they know they are expecting, a new study suggests.
Texas Health and Human Services (USA) - Leading Cause of Intellectual Disabilities Is Preventable
Prenatal alcohol exposure affects more children annually than spina bifida, Down syndrome, childhood cancer and childhood diabetes combined — 2 to 5 percent of all children.
Parliamentary Monitoring Group (South Africa) - Foetal Alcohol Syndrome: FASFacts briefing
FASFacts, an non-profit orgnanisation dealing with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome based in the Western Cape, explained its goals and strategies. In South Africa at least three million people have fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), and approximately six million have partial FAS and other FAS disorders.
Minnesota News Network (USA) - Advocates want state-funded services for those with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Advocates are at the State Capitol today, asking lawmakers for funding for services for those with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Alberta - Alberta FASD Conference (October 24-27, 2017)
We are happy to invite you to join us and our partners at the 2017 National Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Conference in Calgary, Alberta on October 24-27, 2017.

VIDEOS and MATERIALS
Omaha.com - Raising children with fetal alcohol syndrome
Nora Boesem of Newell, South Dakota, talks about the challenges of raising nine children with fetal alcohol syndrome. The children were adopted by Boesem and her husband, Randy.
MOFAS - MOFAS: School to Prison Pipeline PSA
As many as 1 in 20 U.S. school children may have a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. FASD is a prenatal brain injury that can make school difficult. Without the proper interventions, some students are at a higher risk for getting into trouble with the law.
Joanna Friedman | MAGNIFY - William’s Story for The Alliance for Children’s Rights
The Alliance for Children’s Rights protects the rights of impoverished, abused and neglected children and youth. By providing free legal services and advocacy, the Alliance ensures children have safe, stable homes, healthcare, and the education they need to thrive.
Kent Online (UK) - Rachel Jackson talks about life with FASD
A 14-year-old girl has been diagnosed with a list of disabilities, caused by Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder because her birth mother drunk whilst pregnant.
FASD Helping Hands Leeds (UK) - Law Enforcement & FASD
This guide is part of a program designed to increase your awareness of disabilities caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol and to help you be more effective in your investigations when dealing with individuals with FASD.

RESEARCH
Alcoholism - Prevalence of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure in the State of Texas as Assessed by Phosphatidylethanol in Newborn Dried Blood Spot Specimens
Results of this first systematic statewide PAE prevalence study demonstrate that PAE might be more prevalent than previously thought. Active case ascertainment efforts for FASD coupled with systematic objective assessment of PAE should expand to the national level to better estimate public health needs required to provide adequate services for children affected by PAE.
Journal of Pediatric Neuropsychology - Neuropsychological Aspects of Prevention and Intervention for FASD in South Africa
Twenty years of collaborative epidemiology research in South Africa have revealed the highest reported rates of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in the world.
University of New York - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and Reading Comprehension: What Works and What Does Not?
The purpose of this research is to not only explore the nature of FASD, but also aid in expanding the understanding of teachers and educators regarding particular teaching and learning strategies that may address the unique literacy needs of students diagnosed with FASD.
Texas A and M University - Advanced Imaging of Disease: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Advanced imaging techniques are being increasingly utilized as quantitative biomarkers and outcome parameters to identify and monitor disease and evaluate new treatments. Validation of these techniques in animal models is imperative to reliably interpret results and apply them clinically in humans.
Alcohol - Epigenetic mediators and consequences of excessive alcohol consumption
Alcohol consumption can affect the epigenome across the lifespan and generations. Further research into epigenetic changes may allow for the identification of biomarkers and the creation of novel therapeutics.
Journal of Women's Health - Alcohol Use During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding: A National Survey in France
Daily alcohol use during pregnancy or breastfeeding was limited, while binge drinking in early pregnancy was reported by a large proportion of women. Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of drinkers varied across drinking patterns.
Neuroscience and Behavioral Physiology - Dynamics of Histological Changes in the Frontal Cortex of the Brain in Rats Subjected to Antenatal Exposure to Alcohol
The aim of the present work was to undertake a comparative study of the effects of prenatal alcoholization of the histological characteristics of neurons in the frontal cortex of the brains of rats of different ages.
Alcohol - Alcohol effects on the epigenome in the germline: Role in the inheritance of alcohol-related pathology
Excessive alcohol exposure has severe health consequences, and clinical and animal studies have demonstrated that disruptions in the epigenome of somatic cells, such as those in brain, are an important factor in the development of alcohol-related pathologies, such as alcohol-use disorders (AUDs) and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs).
Virginia Henderson International Nursing e-Repository - Interprofessional Collaborative Partnerships to Create Healthy Environments: Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
This interprofessional national network and discipline specific working groups is providing evidence-based materials for the clinical work environment for any practicing nurse who advocates a healthy lifestyle environment for their clients.
Danish National Research Database - Biomarkers for the detection of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE)
Alcohol exposure during pregnancy can cause adverse effects to the fetus, because it interferes with fetal development, leading to later physical and mental impairment. The most common clinical tool to determine fetal alcohol exposure is maternal self-reporting.
Journal of Nepal Health Research Council - Alcohol Consumption during Pregnancy and Postpartum Period and its Predictors in Sindhupalchowk District, Nepal
A substantial proportion of women in Nepal consume alcohol and homebrewed alcoholic beverages are the most common type of alcohol. Alcohol being a part of tradition and culture in Nepal and evidences suggesting even low to moderate dose of alcohol having impacts on the birth outcomes, we aimed at exploring the alcohol consumption pattern during pregnancy and postpartum period along with its predictors.
A Journal on Normal and Abnormal Development in Childhood and Adolescence - An investigation of intra-individual variability in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD)
Intra-individual variability (IIV) is defined as systematic within-person variation in performance either across test sessions (e.g., test/retest performance on the same task) or in one session (e.g., variations in performance on multiple trials of a single task).
Journal of Alcoholism & Drug Dependence - Fetal Alcohol Exposure: The Common Toll
It has become increasingly clear over the last years that alcohol exposure during fetal development can have detrimental effects on various organ systems, and these effects are exerted by alcohol through multiple means, including effects on free radical formation, cellular apoptosis, as well as gene expression.

IN OTHER LANGUAGES
Kehitysvammaliitto (Finland) - Liian pieni juomaan -kampanja FASD-nuorten vertaisryhmätoiminnan tueksi
Suomessa syntyy vuosittain 600-3000 lasta, joilla on jonkinasteinen alkoholivaurio. Vaikeimmin vammautuneet lapset ovat kehitysvammaisia.
Hamburger Abendblatt (Germany) - Ein Gläschen Sekt kann schon zu viel sein
Etwa 10.000 Kinder kommen pro Jahr in Deutschland geschädigt zur Welt, weil die Mütter in der Schwangerschaft Alkohol getrunken haben.
NOZ - Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung (Germany) - Das eine Glas? Osnabrücker Mütter über ihr Leben mit FASD-Kindern
Osnabrück. „Mach dich mal locker, du bist schwanger und nicht krank.“ Durch Sprüche wie diese lassen sich viele Schwangere dazu hinreißen, in geselliger Runde doch ein Glas mitzutrinken. Welche Folgen dieses eine Glas haben kann, berichten Mütter aus der Selbsthilfegruppe FASD Osnabrück.
DIE WELT (Germany) - 0,0 Promille, sonst drohen schreckliche Folgen
Wenn werdende Mütter trinken: 300.000 Menschen in Deutschland leiden am Fetalen Alkoholsyndrom. Sie sind von Geburt an dauerhaft geschädigt. Forscher warnen, dass auch kleinste Mengen gefährlich sind.
Stiri Zilnic (Romania) - FEMEILE ÎNSĂRCINATE NU AU VOIE SĂ BEA ALCOOL, NU-I AȘA? NOILE STUDII SUGEREAZĂ ALTCEVA
Haideți să repetăm împreună: Femeile își cunosc la perfecție corpurile. Femeile pot avea încredere în corpurile lor!

Wednesday, March 15, 2017

Alcohol News - 11/2017

Eurekalert - Depression, alcohol, and marijuana linked to later use of synthetic marijuana among teens
In the first prospective study of synthetic cannabinoids or SCs - the group of chemicals that mimic the effects of marijuana - researchers have found that symptoms of depression, drinking alcohol, or using marijuana was linked to an increased risk of SC use one year later.
Daily Mail - Are teenagers replacing drugs and alcohol with TECHNOLOGY?
Research suggests teenagers might be so glued to their smartphones, tablets and televisions that they no longer have time for drugs and alcohol.
Flanders Today (Belgium) - Youngsters putting off drinking alcohol, according to study
The consumption of alcohol by teenagers is decreasing, and they are also starting to drink at a later age. The figures comes from the annual study among secondary school students published by VAD, the Flemish expertise centre for addiction problems related to alcohol, drugs and gambling.
EurActiv (EU) - Commission grants industry additional year to propose alcohol labelling information
Following a two-year delay, the European Commission presented its proposal on alcohol information on Monday (13 March), giving the alcoholic beverages industry an additional year to come up with a “self-regulatory” proposal.
Cincinnati.com (USA) - Majority of students focusing on future, not alcohol
With media so focused on the high-risk drinking behaviors of and consequences for Miami University students, it is important to recognize that these actions are being carried out by a small minority. Out of 16,980 undergraduates in Oxford, the focus has been on the behavior of fewer than 30 or so students.
Belfast Telegraph (Northern Ireland) - Alcohol abuse costs economy £900m a year, addiction charity says
Alcohol misuse costs the Northern Ireland economy almost £1 billion a year, research showed. Drinking too much caused lost productivity, premature death and unemployment, according Addiction NI.
Men's Journal (USA) - Utah Is About to Lower Its Legal Blood Alcohol Limit to .05%
Utah is quite possibly about to become even less attractive to tourists. Thanks to legislation passed earlier this week, the state may soon be lowering the blood-alcohol content (BAC) limit for drivers to .05 percent, down from .08 percent, which is standard for the rest of the country.
Kildare Nationalist (Ireland) - SURVEY REVEALS 57% OF ADULTS THINK FAR TOO MUCH ALCOHOL IS CONSUMED ON ST PATRICK’S DAY
A recent survey conducted by iReach Insights shows that 57% of adults think far too much alcohol is consumed on St Patrick’s Day.
The Australian (Australia) - Cashless welfare card ‘cuts use of alcohol and drugs
A cashless welfare card that stops government benefits being spent on drugs and alcohol will be made permanent in two remote communities and looks set to be ­expanded, after trials found it greatly reduced rates of substance abuse and gambling.
Live Science - Many Women Still Drink Alcohol When Trying to Get Pregnant
About half of pregnant women in the United States drink alcohol around the time they become pregnant or in early pregnancy, usually before they know they are expecting, a new study suggests.
Canadian Underwriter (Canada) - Toronto city staff warn of ‘increased risk-taking behaviour’ when combining alcohol with caffeine drinks
Toronto’s board of health will consider Monday a proposal to require organizers of events on city property to “be familiar” with a federal government warning against mixing alcohol with caffeinated energy drinks.
Waikato Times (New Zealand) - Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder – an invisible generation of sufferers
A teenage boy burgles a house, gets caught and is sent straight to bootcamp. The young man is whipped into shape by a daily diet of early-morning starts and army drills. He learns about authority, self esteem and team building. When he gets out, his report positively glows.
The Hindu (India) - Kids’ access to alcohol a concern: HC
Expressing concern over the easy access that schoolchildren have to tobacco products and alcohol in Tamil Nadu, Justice N. Kirubakaran of the Madras High Court on Tuesday observed that “if the situation is allowed to continue, Tamil Nadu might become another Punjab.”

Monday, March 13, 2017

Driving change: A frontline perspective on alcohol harm

Professor Jonathan Shepherd discusses the UK Cardiff model of violence prevention, Australia's Driving Change pilot, and #AlcoholHarmED at a forum held in Canberra on Tuesday 7 March 2017.

Driving change: A frontline perspective on alcohol harm from FAREAustralia on Vimeo.

Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Alcohol News - 10/2017

The Local (Switzerland) - Swiss survey: smoking and drugs aren’t ‘cool’ – but drinking still is
Young people in Switzerland are increasingly rejecting smoking and drugs, but still enjoy drinking alcohol, according to a new survey.
The Australian (Australia) - One in three juvenile offenders have foetal alcohol spectrum disorder
The first Australian study of brain damage among juvenile offenders has uncovered the highest known rates of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder in any child prison population worldwide.
The Local (Sweden) - Young Swedes swapping alcohol for social media and the gym: study
Young Swedes are becoming stricter in their attitudes towards alcohol, with social media use and a love of fitness contributing to a less permissive attitude – the opposite of their older compatriots.
The Guardian (UK) - Life-saving alcohol services face devastating cuts
When a man in his early 20s, who was an alcohol-dependent heroin user, turned up at hospital with a gastrointestinal bleed, Helene Leslie didn’t think he had long left to live.
CheatSheet - The Horrifying Things Drinking Too Much Alcohol Does to Your Body
Few drinks are more controversial than alcohol. While heavy drinking has been linked to health problems, some also point out potential benefits when consumed in moderation. Mayo Clinic says these pluses aren’t definite, but it’s possible moderate consumption may reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and ischemic stroke.
Ottawa Citizen (Canada) - Adults exposed to alcohol before birth appear prone to health conditions: survey
Myles Himmelreich has struggled with significant joint pain since he was a teen, yet he didn't get a proper diagnosis of arthritis until he was in his mid-30s.
The Globe and Mail - I’d drink to just about anything
A high-functioning – or functional – alcoholic is someone who seems to be doing just fine as they abuse alcohol. Functional alcoholism can be hard to spot, and it tends to fester in corporate and start-up environments where bonds are formed and deals made over happy hour, boozy conferences and, in some cases, free beer from the work fridge.
IOL Business Report (South Africa) - 'Alcohol abuse demands radical approach' – Davies
South Africa requires a radical approach to regulate the country's liquor industry if it hopes to deal effectively with the negative socio-economic effects of alcohol abuse, Minister of Trade and Industry Rob Davies has said.
The Irish Times - A booze-free year: no colds, fewer rows and a quieter me
It was some time into the sixth week of Christmas festivities that I realised the drinking had to stop. From the mid-November parties to the New Year’s toasts, every day offered an excuse to load up on alcohol.
Derry Now (Northern Ireland) - Over 40% of respondents to Department of Justice survey concerned about drug and alcohol related issues in their area
The Department of Justice (DOJ) today published Research and Statistical Bulletin 8/2017 ‘Views on Alcohol and Drug Related Issues: Findings from the October 2016 Northern Ireland Omnibus Survey’.
The Better India (India) - Does an Alcohol Ban Work? A Cancer Specialist Talks About the Effect of Such Bans on Women
Dr. Vishal Rao, an oncologist and head and neck surgeon at the Bangalore-based HealthCare Global (HCG) Cancer Center, writes about the harmful effects of alcohol beyond personal health.
Irish Times (Ireland) - Alcohol Bill may return to Seanad before summer
A controversial alcohol Bill which will introduce minimum unit pricing and curtains over drinks displays in shops could return to the Seanad for debate before the end of the current Oireachtas term, a Government Minister has said.
Reliefweb (Thailand) - Suicide Attempts in Refugee Camp Linked to Drug and Alcohol Abuse
A growing number of suicide cases in a Burmese refugee camp in Mae La, Thailand has raised concerns with camp authorities.
Irish Independent (Ireland) - 'Unseen' calories in alcohol give drinkers food for thought
Drinkers can consume more calories in a night out than their entire daily allowance, an obesity expert has warned.
Face2Face Africa (Tanzania) - Tanzania Bans Sale of Alcohol Sachets
The Tanzanian government has banned the import, manufacture, sale, and consumption of alcohol in small plastic bags.
Grand Forks Herald - Fatal attraction: For women, the lure of alcohol is becoming more deadly
Heavy drinking has become a bigger, more socially accepted part of American women's lives. And health statistics show the results have been deadly.
Express.co.uk - Alcohol can cause hypoglycaemia: Nine signs YOU could have dangerous low blood sugar
DIABETES is most commonly thought of as a condition caused by high blood sugar levels. However, people with diabetes can be at risk of hypoglycaemia - also known as low blood sugar.
National Institutes of Health (USA) - Study finds effective interventions to prevent alcohol use among American Indian and rural youth
Community-based and individual-level prevention strategies are effective ways to reduce alcohol use among American Indian and other youth living in rural communities, according to a new study supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), part of the National Institutes of Health.
ChronicleLive (UK) - Prime Minister accused of 'disappointing' response over tackling 'pocket money' alcohol
The Prime Minister has been accused of failing “to keep alcohol from being sold at pocket money prices” by a Tyneside MP.

Sunday, March 5, 2017

FASD News - 9/2017

ABC Online (Australia) - One in three in WA youth detention have foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, study finds
At least one in three young people in detention in Western Australia suffers from foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), according to findings from an Australian-first study.
durhamregion.com - Adults with FASD suffer health problems: survey
Myles Himmelreich has struggled with significant joint pain since he was a teen, yet he didn't get a proper diagnosis of arthritis until he was in his mid-30s.
Kent Online (UK) - Rachel Jackson talks about FASD after mother Sharon Jackson sets up FASD Awareness Kent and Medway
“Occasionally I wanted to kill myself. “It was very hard for me to live with that everyday. “Every morning I didn’t want to get up and go to school. I knew kids would bully me because I’m different.”
News Sentinel - Drs. Roizen and Oz: Let pediatrician evaluate baby if fetal alcohol syndrome is suspected
But whatever the cause of your concern, your niece needs to be evaluated by a pediatrician who's a specialist in developmental problems ASAP. The sooner she's treated for any developmental problems she may have, the better her chances of overcoming any deficits.
The Prevention Conversation - EPIGENETICS STUDIES OF FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER: WHERE ARE WE NOW?
The study of epigenetic mechanisms is fast on its way to becoming an important method for understanding and potentially diagnosing fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
CBC (Canada) - FASD symposium tackles Truth and Reconciliation recommendations
A national symposium hosted in Regina this week focused on how best to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action regarding fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
The Coonnection (USA) - TOPDD Works to Raise Awareness of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Prenatal alcohol exposure affects more children annually than spina bifida, Down syndrome, childhood cancer and childhood diabetes combined — 2 to 5 percent of all children. Yet, despite it being the leading cause of intellectual disabilities, it remains an issue often misunderstood by the public.

VIDEOS and MATERIALS
Telethon Kids Institute - 1 in 3 young people in detention has FASD
New research by the Telethon Kids Institute has found 1 in 3 young people in detention has Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
UT Dallas Media - “The Legal Drug - Alcohol - and Child Development”- Toosie Van Beveren
The legal drug alcohol is one of the most damaging substances a woman can consume during pregnancy. The effects of maternal alcohol use on the unborn child are known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and are characterized by a pattern of physical abnormalities, pre- and post-natal growth retardation, and central nervous system dysfunction.
Teratology Society - World Birth Defects Day Tips
Spread the word on March 3rd's World Birth Defects Day - Important tips to prevent birth defects if planning a pregnancy. - A joint effort between the Teratology Society, MotherToBaby, The North American AED Pregnancy Registry and the National Birth Defects Prevention Network.
Confessions of an Adoptive Parent - Practical Strategies To Help Parents Who Are Raising Children With FASD
Parenting children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders can often feel hopeless and void of answers. In the debut of Season 5, Mike and Matt discuss practical strategies to help parents form a plan and find answers.

UPCOMING
CRISIS & TRAUMA RESOURCE INSTITUTE INC - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder – Strategies for Supporting (March 21-22, Winnipeg USA)
There is a growing need for caregivers to acquire increased knowledge and practical skills to support children, adults and families living with FASD.
CRISIS & TRAUMA RESOURCE INSTITUTE INC - LIVE STREAM EVENT – Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder – Strategies for Supporting (March 21-22)
This is a live stream event, please check our system requirements prior to registering. You Will Receive A pdf copy of our resource manual. Live streamed workshops are best viewed with another person.
FASCETS - Three-Day Workshop for Parents and Professionals (June 22, Portland, USA)
This workshop provides information about Fetal Alcohol and other neurobehavioral conditions (FA/NB), and the effects of alcohol and other drugs on behaviors of children, adolescents and adults.

RESEARCH
Alcoholism - Heavy prenatal alcohol exposure is related to smaller corpus callosum in newborn MRI scans
MRI studies have consistently demonstrated disproportionately smaller corpus callosa in individuals with a history of prenatal alcohol exposure but have not previously examined the feasibility of detecting this effect in infants.
Alcohol - DNA Methylation program in normal and alcohol-induced thinning cortex
While cerebral underdevelopment is a hallmark of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), the mechanism(s) guiding the broad cortical neurodevelopmental deficits are not clear.
Neurotoxicology and Teratology - Long-term behavioral change as a result of acute ethanol exposure in zebrafish: Evidence for a role for sonic hedgehog but not retinoic acid signaling
Developmental exposure to ethanol is recognized to produce long-term neurobehavioral impairment in multiple animal models. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these deficits remain poorly understood.
Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment - Efficacy of motivational enhancement therapy to decrease alcohol and illicit-drug use in pregnant substance users reporting baseline alcohol use
Approximately 35% of pregnant substance users in treatment report alcohol abuse, which increases the risk of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in their offspring.
NRF - The effect of a water activity intervention programme on the motor proficiency levels of institutionalized children with Down's syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Mental retardation is a heterogeneous group of disorders wife, countless causes. It is characterised by cognitive and functional limitations in everyday skills, for example social skills, communication skills and motor skills and can be classified in behavioural, etiological and educational systems.
NRF - The neuro-cognitive functioning of children with foetal alcohol effects (FAE) : a comparison with foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) controls
Prenatal alcohol exposure has many harmful effects on a developing fetus. The toxic effects of alcohol on a developing fetus range from physical malformations, low birth weight, neuro-developmental abnormalities and congenital malformations.
The George Washington University - Pregnant Women and Substance Use: Overview of Research & Policy in the United States
This paper examines the current literature and policy implications of substance use and substance use disorders among pregnant and parenting women.
Substance Use & Misuse - Dietary Intake Among Opioid- and Alcohol-Using Pregnant Women
Substance abuse in nonpregnant adults has been associated with increased intake in calories and decreased intake of nutrient-dense foods; however, studies examining dietary intake in opioid-using and alcohol-using pregnant women are lacking.
Bio-Psycho-Social Obstetrics and Gynecology - A Pregnant Woman Who Could Not Stop Drinking: Management of Alcohol Abuse in Pregnancy
Alcohol abuse during pregnancy has been found to be harmful for pregnancy outcome and the health of the unborn child. In addition to this, alcoholism in a pregnant mother also harms her social environment, her transition to motherhood, and her relationships with her partner, relatives, friends, and also healthcare providers.
Addiction - Criminalizing substance use in pregnancy: misplaced priorities
In July 2016, Tennessee allowed its ‘fetal-assault’ statute to expire. This controversial law was the first to criminalize substance use explicitly during pregnancy.
Women's health and midwifery - Alcohol consumption during pregnancy and breast feeding in Canada is prevalent and not strongly associated with mental health status
Healthcare practitioners need to be aware that women who stop drinking alcohol during pregnancy may resume drinking while breast feeding.
Journal of Experimental and Clinical Anatomy - Histological and biochemical studies of Tamarindus indica pulp extract on the cerebral cortex in prenatal ethanol exposure in Wistar rats
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the histological and biochemical changes associated with the administration of Tamarindus indica pulp extract (TIPE) on the cerebral cortex in prenatal ethanol exposed Wistar rats.
CMAJ Open - Comparing diagnostic classification of neurobehavioral disorder associated with prenatal alcohol exposure with the Canadian fetal alcohol spectrum disorder guidelines: a cohort study
Diagnostic criteria have recently been introduced in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5), for neurobehavioral disorder associated with prenatal alcohol exposure (ND-PAE).

IN OTHER LANGUAGES
openPR.de (Germany) - Frauenärzte fordern Maßnahmen gegen riskanten Alkoholkonsum
Beim Alkoholkonsum belegt Deutschland im weltweiten Vergleich stets Spitzenplätze: Rund zehn Liter reinen Alkohols werden hierzulande nach aktuellen Informationen des Bundesgesundheitsministeriums jedes Jahr pro Kopf getrunken und verursachen alljährlich volkswirtschaftliche Schäden in Höhe von 26,7 Milliarden Euro.
Lineadiretta24 (Italy) - Sindrome alcolica fetale: è record di casi in Europa
La FAS (“Fetal Alcohol Syndrome”) causa al nascituro danni cerebrali permanenti, problemi mentali, disturbi comportamentali, difficoltà neuro-cognitive, ritardi nell’apprendimento, deformità fisiche, anomalie cranio-facciali.

Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Alcohol News - 9/2017

Le News (Switzerland) - Swiss fact: one in seven Swiss drink no alcohol
A recent report shows that around 1 in 7 Swiss drink no alcohol. Of the 13.8% who avoid alcohol completely, 6.5% have avoided it all their lives, while a further 7.3% are former drinkers who haven’t consumed alcohol over the last 12 months.
Washington Post - Are women increasingly at risk of addiction?
Last year, American novelist Joyce Maynard faced a harsh realization: Her habit of reaching for a glass of wine whenever she felt stressed had crossed the line into an addiction.
ITV (Wales) - ‘Alcohol became everything to me': The stark reality of life with a serious addiction
Tony Wright spent twenty years presenting breakfast radio. He’s also an actor who’s raised thousands of pounds for charity. What started as a few drinks in the evening, over time, grew into serious addiction.
702 (South Africa) - We don't have to have alcohol ads, says Soul City Institute
Alcohol advertisements and schools operating nearby taverns tempt children to start drinking at a young age, according to a a new study released by the Soul City Institute for Social Justice.
Herald Scotland (Scotland) - Scottish Government report calls for ban on alcohol advertising and sponsorship
ALCOHOL advertising in public spaces faces a ban with sponsorship of major sporting and cultural events by drinks brands brought to an end under sweeping plans in a new report for the Scottish Government.
BBC (Scotland) - Children exposed to 'unacceptably high levels' of alcohol marketing
Children are exposed to "unacceptably high levels" of alcohol marketing through sports sponsorship and public adverts, according to a report.
The Telegraph (USA) - Alcohol-to-go approved in US airports – what could possibly go wrong?
While Europe tries to clamp down on sozzled air passengers, lawmakers in the US state of Missouri have approved a bill that would allow the state’s airports to sell takeaway booze to holidaymakers. What could possibly go wrong?
Ukrop News (Ukraine) - The Parliament propose to prohibit throughout Ukraine night to sell alcohol
The Ukrainian Parliament offered to consider a bill that prohibits the sale of alcohol between 22:00 and 08:00 across the country. The corresponding document was registered 18 MPs, and the main initiator of non-faction people’s Deputy Mikhail Golovko, reported on the website of the Verkhovna Rada.
Flanders Today (Belgium) - Alcohol-free February sees profits dip in hospitality industry
Tournée Minérale – the campaign that saw more than 120,000 Belgians swear off alcohol for the entire month of February – saw sales in Flanders’ hospitality businesses drop by about 10%, according to industry federation Horeca Vlaanderen.
Radio New Zealand (New Zealand) - Alcohol as big an issue as drugs among workers, dairy industry says
Dairy farm employers have problems with workers taking drugs and not making a good effort, but alcohol abuse is just as big an issue, Federated Farmers says.
Knowridge Science Report - Excessive alcohol drinking can impact breathing, study shows
A study led by researchers from Loyola Medicine and Loyola University Chicago has discovered a potential new health concern related to excessive alcohol consumption.
Norway Today (Norway/Finland/Iceland) - Høie worried about Finnish and Icelandic deregulation of alcohol
Health Minister Bent Høie fears that proposals for deregulation of alcohol sales in Finland and Iceland may indirectly put pressure on the alcohol Monopoly here at home.
Huffington Post - Smart Kids Are More Likely To Experiment With Pot And Alcohol
How’s this for peer pressure? Not only do the cool kids smoke pot, but it turns out the smart kids do, too.
YLE News (Finland) - Elderly more marginalised, developing alcohol problems
Alcohol use among Finland’s senior citizens is growing and older women are now becoming alcoholics at the same rate as men. The increase is apparent in home care visits and more trips to the hospital.
IceNews (Iceland) - Majority opposes ending state monopoly of alcohol according to surveys
A bill is currently being debated in the Icelandic parliament regarding the state monopoly of alcohol retail. Passing the bill would mean to abolish the state monopoly of liquor and close the Vinbudin, presently the only retail store chain where Icelanders can buy wine, bear and strong liquor.
The Guardian (UK) - 'I loved and hated her in equal measure' – life with an alcoholic mother
When Mum died, I vowed to talk about alcoholism because I can’t bear to be complicit in the silence surrounding the issue.
Medscape - Third of Oncologists Report High Burnout; 30% Turn to Alcohol
Substantial proportions of oncologists are suffering from burnout and stress and using alcohol to deal with the emotional strain of treating patients with cancer and the ever-increasing workload pressures, the results of a meta-analysis has revealed.
Irish Health (Ireland) - Alcohol consumption increased last year
Irish people drank more alcohol last year compared to the year before, with spirits and cider seeing the biggest jumps in consumption, new figures have shown.