Alcohol News - 39/2026

JA PreventNCD (Iceland) - Less alcohol, lower risk: in conversation with Rafn M. Jónsson
Alcohol has been part of social and cultural life across Europe for generations, from celebrations and traditions to everyday social occasions. At the same time, its effects on health are well established. Alcohol is linked to cancer, cardiovascular disease, liver disease, injuries, mental health harms and wider impacts on families and communities.
https://www.preventncd.eu/newsroom/interviews/less-alcohol-lower-risk-in-conversation-with-rafn-m-jonsson/

European Commission (EU) - 5% of Europeans consumed alcohol daily in 2025
In 2025, 4.8% of people aged 16 or over in the EU consumed alcohol every day. The share of people who consumed alcohol every week was 19.2%, and 21.8% for those consuming every month.
https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/w/ddn-20260928-1

BBC Science Focus Magazine - How to permanently change your relationship with alcohol in 30 days
Sobriety is becoming cool. Gen Z, in particular, is less likely to drink than generations before them. Drinking rates among US adults under the age of 34 have fallen by 10 percentage points over the last 20 years, from 72 to 62 per cent, according to Gallup polling.
https://www.sciencefocus.com/wellbeing/how-to-permanently-change-your-relationship-with-alcohol-in-30-days-2

VRT (Belgium) - More and more Flemings are drinking alcohol rarely or never
More and more Flemings – around 44 per cent of the adult population -rarely or never drink alcohol. Four years ago, the figure was 36 per cent. The figure comes from a survey of 2,292 Flemings commissioned by the Stand Up to Cancer charity Kom op tegen Kanker.
https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/en/2026/10/01/more-and-more-flemings-are-drinking-alcohol-rarely-or-never/

The Conversation (Denmark/UK) - How do Denmark and the UK compare when it comes to alcohol and drinking habits?
For decades, Denmark and the UK have been known as countries where alcohol plays a big role in people’s social lives. In this way, the two countries make an interesting comparison when it comes to alcohol consumption because they both have a strong drinking culture.
https://theconversation.com/how-do-denmark-and-the-uk-compare-when-it-comes-to-alcohol-and-drinking-habits-282400

Wales 247 (Wales) - Major alcohol pricing change comes into force across Wales today
From today (Thursday 1 October) the minimum price of a unit of alcohol will increase in Wales from 50p to 65p in a move which is expected to save hundreds of lives.
https://www.wales247.co.uk/major-alcohol-pricing-change-comes-into-force-across-wales-today

CBC (Canada) - Alcohol is Canada’s biggest drug problem. So why aren’t people getting help?
Jordan Kawchuk didn’t imagine having a roommate at the age of 54, let alone more than a dozen of them. But for six months at the start of 2026, his home was the Vancouver Island Therapeutic Community (VITC), a treatment centre for men in Nanaimo, B.C.
https://www.cbc.ca/radio/thecurrent/alcohol-use-disorder-9.7357272

BusinessTech (South Africa) - Ramaphosa announces 90-day plan to fix streetlights, cut alcohol, and increase policing as violence rocks South Africa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced a four-point plan in response to the spate of killings and violence against women in the country. It includes a ‘safety audit’ in municipalities and a clampdown on liquor outlets and consumption.
https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/877524/ramaphosa-announces-90-day-plan-to-fix-streetlights-cut-alcohol-and-increase-policing-as-violence-rocks-south-africa/

WHO (Latvia) - New alcohol policy measures in Latvia produce rapid public health gains
What happens when alcohol becomes a little less easy to buy and consume? Some relatively simple changes to alcohol legislation in Latvia have made a rapid impact, an early WHO study shows.
https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/28-09-2026-new-alcohol-policy-measures-in-latvia-produce-rapid-public-health-gains

Scripps News - Even light drinking may harm brain health, new research suggests
New research suggests even light alcohol consumption could negatively affect brain health, challenging the long-held belief that a glass of wine a day may keep dementia away.
https://www.scrippsnews.com/health/even-light-drinking-may-harm-brain-health-new-research-suggests

IAS Blog - Beyond opinion polls: a citizens’ jury’s verdict on alcohol policy
People want to live in thriving communities, where young people can grow up free from pervasive marketing, and policy decisions prioritise our health and wellbeing.
https://www.ias.org.uk/2026/09/29/beyond-opinion-polls-a-citizens-jurys-verdict-on-alcohol-policy/

Alcohol Focus Scotland - In Focus: The Monthly AFS CEO Blog - Why we need an Alcohol Action Day in Scotland
“Delighted”. It’s a word I challenge myself never to use. If you regularly share news on social media, as I do, then you’ll know it’s the adjective we all tend to reach for – but it can’t always be true. If you took my LinkedIn feed literally, you’d believe everyone is wildly thrilled about absolutely everything, all the time.
https://www.alcohol-focus-scotland.org.uk/news/news/why-we-need-an-alcohol-action-day-in-scotland-/

Zeroproof.one (Belgium) - Belgium's Alcohol Ad Warning Moves From Abuse to Alcohol Itself, and Alcohol-Free Sits Outside It
One word leaves the sentence and the whole argument changes. A reading of the notified Belgian decree, the instrument that carries it, and the 0.5 percent line that decides which shelf it touches.
https://zeroproof.one/blog/belgium-alcohol-advertising-warning-reform-2026/

AACR - Beyond Hangovers: Binge Drinking and the Risk of Early-onset Breast and Colorectal Cancers
Who binge drinks more often: young men or women? Twenty-five years ago, the answer was unquestionably young men—with rates twice as high as young women. But today, rates among young women have caught up to and even slightly surpassed those of young men.
https://www.aacr.org/blog/2026/09/28/beyond-hangovers-binge-drinking-and-the-risk-of-early-onset-breast-and-colorectal-cancers/

Alcohol Focus Scotland - Alcohol advertising puts people at risk of relapse say members of recovery community - New Report
People with lived experience of alcohol harm have called for a new approach to alcohol advertising and marketing, saying that its ubiquity acts as a potential trigger that puts them at risk of relapse.
https://www.alcohol-focus-scotland.org.uk/news/news/alcohol-advertising-puts-people-at-risk-of-relapse-say-members-of-recovery-community---new/

NordAN (Lithuania) - NordAN submits TRIS contribution on Lithuania’s proposed age restriction for alcohol-branded NoLo drinks
NordAN has submitted a contribution to the European Commission’s Technical Regulation Information System (TRIS) concerning Lithuania’s proposed restrictions on the sale of certain non-alcoholic drinks to minors.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/nordan-submits-tris-contribution-on-lithuania-s-proposed-age-restriction-for-alcohol-branded-nolo-dr

European Heart Network (EU) - World Heart Day is no platform for alcohol industry influence
On 29 September, World Heart Day, MEP Dario Nardella (S&D) will host an event in the European Parliament on the role of wine in health policy debates, organised by the European Committee of Wine Companies (CEEV). European public health organisations consider it wholly inappropriate that an MEP would give the alcohol industry a platform in a health policy debate, particularly on a day dedicated to raising awareness of cardiovascular disease and its prevention.
https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/world-heart-day-is-no-platform-for-alcohol-industry-influence/

NordAN (Finland) - Finnish study links alcohol use to increased prostate cancer risk
A new study from the Finnish Cancer Registry suggests that alcohol consumption may be associated with an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/finnish-study-links-alcohol-use-to-increased-prostate-cancer-risk

NordAN (Denmark) - Most Danes want others to speak up if they are concerned about their drinking
A new Danish survey shows that concern about other people’s drinking is common, but many people still find it difficult to speak openly about alcohol problems.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/most-danes-want-others-to-speak-up-if-they-are-concerned-about-their-drinking

Alcohol News - 38/2026

Forbes (USA) - Hunger Games IRL: 2.1% Of US Alcohol Land Could End Global Starvation
A new study quantifies the public health and food security benefits of repurposing U.S. agricultural land currently used for alcohol production. It explores the potential for saving lives by mitigating alcohol-related harms and by increasing food availability.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/joshpearce/2026/09/20/hunger-games-irl-21-of-us-alcohol-land-could-end-global-starvation/

Time Magazine (USA) - Why Older Americans Are Drinking More Alcohol—Not Less
The U.S. is in the midst of a temperance boom. Drinking rates have been steadily declining nationwide, with an August Gallup poll showing that only 54% of Americans ever consume alcohol—sharply down from 67% as recently as 2010.
https://time.com/article/2026/09/21/why-older-americans-are-drinking-more-alcohol-not-less/

BBC (UK) - Burnham brands ban on football fans drinking alcohol in stands as 'discrimination'
Andy Burnham has branded a ban on fans being allowed to drink alcohol in the stands during men's football matches as "discrimination".
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c933ky0nknxko

News-Medical - Why wanting alcohol may matter more than liking it
A survey of 446 adults tested whether the urge to drink, expected pleasure, and reasons such as coping or socializing point to distinct patterns of alcohol use and readiness for change.
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260921/Why-wanting-alcohol-may-matter-more-than-liking-it.aspx

ABC News & Headlines – Australian Broadcasting Corporation - Push for more detailed alcohol labelling, after low uptake of voluntary system
An analysis of labels from 6,037 different alcoholic drinks sold in Australia has found just one in four included a voluntary warning label. The study's lead author says this indicates harms are not being communicated clearly and wants labels to be more specific, warning consumers about the risk of cancer and liver disease.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/health/2026-09-23/alcoholic-drinks-labelling-overhaul-push/107176258

Euronews.com - World Cup fans were exposed to junk food, alcohol and gambling ads every seven seconds
Advertising for junk food, alcohol and gambling during the match live coverage of the World Cup occupied almost a quarter of the tournament’s total live broadcast time, a new study has found.
https://www.euronews.com/2026/09/22/world-cup-fans-were-exposed-to-junk-food-alcohol-and-gambling-ads-every-seven-seconds

DutchNews.nl (Netherlands) - Road safety institute weighing up zero alcohol limit for drivers
The Dutch Road Safety Research Institute has released a new study on reducing the drug and alcohol limit for drivers to zero, finding it would probably decrease road accidents but would increase pressure on the police.
https://www.dutchnews.nl/2026/09/road-safety-institute-weighing-up-zero-tolerance-for-drivers/

HuffPost - So THAT’s Why Drinking Alcohol Makes You More Tired As You Get Older
You probably don’t need an expert to tell you that alcohol messes with your body, especially when you’re well past your college years. Alcohol can make you more anxious as you age, for example (hello, “hangxiety”) and just generally make you feel worse — including more tired.
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/why-alcohol-makes-you-more-tired-as-you-get-older_l_6a91a55be4b0fc8477ab7b51

ITVX (UK) - Tory welfare plan to block benefit claimants buying cigarettes and alcohol
The Conservative party have announced plans to ban long-term benefit claimants from buying alcohol and cigarettes, gambling and completing cash withdrawals.
https://www.itv.com/news/2026-09-24/tory-welfare-plan-to-block-benefit-claimants-buying-cigarettes-and-alcohol

RTE.ie (Ireland) - Move on alcohol discounts 'modest', says campaign group
A move to stop supermarkets from discounting the price of alcohol through the use of loyalty points has been described as "modest" by Alcohol Action Ireland.
https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2026/0924/1592777-ireland-alcohol/

Planet Biometrics (UK) - England and Wales authorise digital proof of age for alcohol purchases
Licensed venues across England and Wales can now accept digital proof of age for alcohol sales following new regulations that came into force on Tuesday, September 15.
https://identityweek.net/england-and-wales-authorise-digital-proof-of-age-for-alcohol-purchases/

Belga Share (Belgium) - Flemish teenagers consume less alcohol and drugs, but some positive trends are weakening
Flemish youth drink less alcohol and use fewer illegal drugs than ten years ago, but the decline in alcohol consumption has plateaued. This was revealed on Thursday in a student survey conducted by the Flemish Expertise Centre on Alcohol and Other Drugs (VAD), which involved nearly 37,000 secondary school pupils in the 2024-2025 school year.
https://belgashare.be/newsrooms/70/press-releases/36823/flemish-teenagers-consume-less-alcohol-and-drugs-but-some-positive-trends-are-weakening/

Irish Examiner (Ireland) - Health minister bans retailers from offering loyalty card prices on alcohol products
The health minister has banned the use of loyalty cards to buy cheaper alcohol from March 2028. Jennifer Carroll MacNeill has brought in the ban in an amendment to existing regulations under the Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018 (Sale and Supply of Alcohol Products) (Amendment) Regulations 2026.
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41914831.html

IAS Blog (UK) - Alcohol-related liver disease deaths remain high. Many die without recent inpatient care
Alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) is a major, preventable cause of death. In 2021, it was estimated to cause over 350,000 deaths globally. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, England has seen a worrying rise in deaths caused by alcohol.
https://www.ias.org.uk/2026/09/22/alcohol-related-liver-disease-deaths-remain-high-many-die-without-recent-inpatient-care/

Levels - Alcohol research is clearer than you think—here's what we know
Alcohol epidemiologist Dr. Tim Naimi explains why decades of studies produced whiplashing conclusions, why the "healthy glass of wine" didn't survive scrutiny, and the one message that has stayed consistent.
https://www.levels.com/blog/alcohol-research-explained-tim-naimi

NordAN (Latvia) - WHO: Initial results in Latvia show that restrictions on alcohol availability have helped prevent more than 60 deaths
At a joint meeting of the Drug Control and Drug Addiction Restriction Coordination Council and the National Council for the Restriction of Alcoholism, held at the Ministry of Health on Wednesday, 23 September, the WHO Regional Office for Europe presented an initial assessment of the impact of measures introduced in Latvia to reduce alcohol availability.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/who-initial-results-in-latvia-show-that-restrictions-on-alcohol-availability-have-helped-prevent-mo

NordAN (Finland) - New Finnish report highlights changing youth attitudes to alcohol, nicotine, drugs and gambling
A new Finnish report provides a broad picture of how young people view alcohol, nicotine products, illegal drugs, gambling and substance-free lifestyles. Published by the Finnish prevention organisation EHYT on 22 September, the Youth Culture and Substances Report 2026 brings together the main findings of its latest biennial survey and compares them with results from previous years.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/new-finnish-report-highlights-changing-youth-attitudes-to-alcohol-nicotine-drugs-and-gambling

NordAN (Norway) - Employers fear young people’s cocaine use but overlook drinking pressure at workplace parties
Headlines about cocaine use can create the impression that “all young people” use cocaine. Meanwhile, young people entering the workforce encounter an unhealthy workplace culture that receives far less attention.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/employers-fear-young-people-s-cocaine-use-but-overlook-drinking-pressure-at-workplace-parties

Alcohol News - 37/2026

Alcohol Action Ireland (EU) - EU’s Kids Act: More robust measures needed to stop manipulative digital and social media alcohol marketing to children
Alcohol Action Ireland (AAI), the national independent advocate to reduce alcohol harm, welcomes today’s announcement of the EU Kids Act by EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, but cautions more robust safeguards are badly needed to protect children from predatory online marketing practices when it comes to health-harming commodities such as alcohol.
https://alcoholireland.ie/press-release-eus-kids-act-more-robust-measures-needed-to-stop-manipulative-digital-and-social-media-alcohol-marketing-to-children/

GOV.UK (UK) - New rules pave the way for businesses to adopt digital proof of age for alcohol sales
Pubs, bars, restaurants, music venues and other licensed premises across England and Wales will have the choice to introduce digital proof of age for alcohol sales under new rules coming into force today (Tuesday 15 September).
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-rules-pave-the-way-for-businesses-to-adopt-digital-proof-of-age-for-alcohol-sales

National Geographic - The Genetics of Being a Lightweight Drinker
It turns out my status as an alcohol lightweight is likely dictated by my genes. Scientists have long known that excessive alcohol consumption has a strong hereditary component.
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/health/article/alcohol-tolerance-genes-brain

BBC (UK) - Alcohol-related crime up more than 25% in City
The number of incidents of alcohol-related crime went up by more than 25% in Plymouth city centre from 2023 to 2025, a report has said.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy0z74egk11o

BBC (France) - Record heatwaves in France set to make champagne stronger
Champagne lovers may find themselves getting tipsy more quickly after French producers have been given the go-ahead to raise the alcohol content in a bottle of bubbly for the first time following this summer's record heatwave.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgydvrlep1o

The American Journal of Managed Care (USA) - Alcohol Abuse Tops List of Post-Trauma Cardiovascular Risks
Adults diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder within 3 years of a traumatic event face a higher risk of a future heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death, with alcohol abuse being the single strongest warning sign for both men and women, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
https://www.ajmc.com/view/alcohol-abuse-tops-list-of-post-trauma-cardiovascular-risks

NewsNation (USA) - Alcohol is the top sacrifice Americans would make for 10 more healthy years
According to a new survey on what Americans would give up for more time on Earth, booze is the first thing to go.
https://www.newsnationnow.com/health/alcohol-national-geographic-survey/

Poliisi.fi (Finland) - Drink-driving survey: Fewer and fewer people take to the road after consuming alcohol
In 2026 drink-driving roadside surveys, the police breath-tested approximately 63,000 drivers. Long-term follow-up shows that the proportion of drivers who have consumed alcohol has been declining. However, the number of actual drink-driving offences has remained at the level of previous years or increased slightly.
https://poliisi.fi/en/-/drink-driving-survey-fewer-and-fewer-people-take-to-the-road-after-consuming-alcohol

Movendi International - When Alcohol Looks Like a Toy: Why Marketing Familiarity Is a Public Health Issue
Alcohol products with bright colours, sweet flavours and novelty packaging are becoming familiar to children long before they can legally buy them.
https://movendi.ngo/blog/2026/09/17/why-marketing-familiarity-is-a-public-health-issue/

FARE Australia - ‘A turning point’: South Australia first in the nation to deliver landmark alcohol laws
South Australia has become the first state in the nation to pass landmark alcohol delivery reforms, including commonsense safeguards that will help make women and children safer in their homes.
https://fare.org.au/south-australia-alcohol-delivery-law/

Cancer Council (Australia) - Cancer Council Australia backs push for mandatory alcohol advertising laws
Cancer Council Australia has welcomed recommendations from a federal parliamentary committee calling for stricter regulation of alcohol advertising and marketing in Australia.
https://www.cancer.org.au/about-us/news-and-media/media-releases/cancer-council-australia-backs-push-for-mandatory-alcohol-advertising-laws

NordAN (Lithuania) - Lithuania moves to restrict alcohol-free beer and wine sales to minors
Lithuania is moving towards banning the sale of certain non-alcoholic drinks, including alcohol-free beer and wine, to people under the age of 18.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/lithuania-moves-to-restrict-alcohol-free-beer-and-wine-sales-to-minors

Alcohol Awareness - The Saboteurs campaign shows what gets in the way of healthier choices
Why can healthier choices be so difficult, even when people know what is good for them? A new campaign from JA PreventNCD, called The Saboteurs, turns that question into a deliberately humorous concept. The campaign presents the environments around us as a group of “saboteurs” that quietly influence what we eat and drink, how active we are, and whether we use tobacco and nicotine products. Its central point is that individual behaviour does not happen in isolation.
https://alcoholcampaign.org/2026/09/15/the-saboteurs-campaign-shows-what-gets-in-the-way-of-healthier-choices/

Alcohol News - 36/2026

Psychology Today - Do We All Need to Start Saying No to Alcohol? 
A major new study from Sinead George of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health finds no net health benefit from low-level alcohol consumption and estimates a 1 in 25 lifetime risk of alcohol-attributable death among people consuming 14 drinks per week.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/nz/blog/addiction-outlook/202606/do-we-all-need-to-start-saying-no-to-alcohol/amp

France 24 (France) - France’s record heatwave pushes champagne alcohol levels to historic high
France’s record-breaking summer heat has forced champagne producers to contend with unusually high sugar levels in grapes, forcing authorities to allow alcohol content of up to 15 percent in the region’s sparkling wine for the first time. Champagne is usually capped at 13 percent.
https://www.france24.com/en/france/20260909-france-s-record-heatwave-pushes-champagne-alcohol-levels-to-historic-high

TimesLIVE (South Africa) - Calls for higher alcohol taxes to help prevent foetal alcohol syndrome
Increasing liquor excise duties is one of most cost-effective public health measures available to reduce harmful drinking, says doctor.
https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2026-09-09-calls-for-higher-alcohol-taxes-to-help-prevent-foetal-alcohol-syndrome/

Movendi International - Preventing FASD Is Possible and a Human Rights Priority but Big Alcohol Stands in the Way of Governments Protecting Children
Children have a right to be protected from predictable and preventable harms, yet tens of millions of people live with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, a condition governments already have the tools to prevent.
https://movendi.ngo/blog/2026/09/09/preventing-fasd-is-possible-and-a-human-rights-priority-but-big-alcohol-stands-in-the-way-of-governments-protecting-children/

The Brussels Times (Belgium) - Belgium is changing how alcohol is marketed - will it change drinking habits?
The new rules will restrict alcohol advertising in media where at least 30% of the audience is under 18, as well as advertising by influencers primarily followed by minors, and require alcohol advertisements to carry the warning “alcohol harms health.”
https://www.brusselstimes.com/2306891/belgium-is-changing-how-alcohol-is-marketed-will-it-change-drinking-habits

The Citizen (South Africa) - Government moves to enforce zero alcohol limit for drivers
GOVERNMENT is moving to tighten restrictions on driving under the influence of alcohol. This as the Department of Transport (DoT) continues to pursue legislative amendments to the National Road Traffic Act to implement a strict zero per cent blood alcohol policy.
https://www.citizen.co.za/zululand-observer/news-headlines/local-news/2026/09/07/government-moves-to-enforce-zero-alcohol-limit-for-drivers/

Alcohol Change - 100 Days Your Way: The gap between what we expect alcohol to do and what it actually does
Most of us have built up a set of beliefs about what alcohol does for us over many years. “It helps me relax”. “It makes social situations easier”. “It takes the edge off a hard day”. These beliefs feel personal and true. But a lot of research has looked at how accurate they actually are, and the findings are often surprising.
https://alcoholchange.org.uk/blog/100-days-your-way-stage-7-2

MedicalXpress - Caregivers for people with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder report increased stress and relational strengths
Caregivers of people with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) identified stress levels and emotional health as the factors most negatively affected by their caregiving role.
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-09-caregivers-people-fetal-alcohol-spectrum.html

MedicalXpress - AI helps clarify complex array and interaction of risk factors contributing to alcohol use disorder
Explainable AI (xAI) models are illuminating the multiple risk factors that underlie the development of alcohol use disorder (AUD), according to a new study.
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-09-ai-complex-array-interaction-factors.html

Cancer Network (USA) - Alcohol-Attributable Cancer Mortality Has Doubled in the US Since 1990
Alcohol-attributable cancer deaths in the United States doubled from 11,361 in 1990 to 23,126 in 2023, according to a secondary analysis of Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data published in The Lancet Regional Health – Americas.
https://www.cancernetwork.com/view/alcohol-attributable-cancer-mortality-has-doubled-in-the-us-since-1990

NordAN (Lithuania) - Lithuania strengthens its response to FASD
Klaipėda University Hospital is strengthening efforts to improve the recognition of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in Lithuania through the international FASD-Bridge project, implemented with partners from Germany and Poland.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/lithuania-strengthens-its-response-to-fasd

Alcohol Awareness (Denmark) - Few people know it: Alcohol increases the risk of cancer
Only 28% of Danish adults are aware of the link between alcohol and cancer, according to new figures from the Danish Cancer Society.
https://alcoholcampaign.org/2026/09/07/few-people-know-it-alcohol-increases-the-risk-of-cancer/

Alcohol Awareness (Norway) - A sold-out Norwegian youth festival puts music first and alcohol out of the Picture
Young people in the Norwegian city of Ålesund have their own two-day music festival this weekend. Spirefest 26, taking place on 4 and 5 September at Terminalen Byscene, is sold out, with organisers saying demand was so strong that tickets disappeared in record time.
https://alcoholcampaign.org/2026/09/05/a-sold-out-norwegian-youth-festival-puts-music-first-and-alcohol-out-of-the-picture/

Alcohol News - 35/2026

University of Queensland (Australia) - Women bear the brunt of alcohol-related fear
Women are nearly three quarters more likely than men to experience fear because of other people’s alcohol consumption, University of Queensland research has found.
https://news.uq.edu.au/2026-09-women-bear-brunt-alcohol-related-fear

CNN - Just one drink a day may increase the risk of dying from numerous cancers
Alcohol may play a greater role in death from numerous types of cancers in the United States than previously known, according to a new study. “While it’s true that overall cancer mortality has declined, we found the percentage of cancer deaths proportionally attributable to alcohol doubled in people 20 and older over the last 33 years,” said the study’s first author Dr. Chinmay Jani.
https://edition.cnn.com/2026/09/03/health/alcohol-impact-cancer-deaths-wellness

The Conversation - Zero‑alcohol drinks are rising in popularity. What do young people think about them?
Over the past decade, zero-alcohol drinks have gone from a relatively niche product to a staple of our supermarket aisles, bottle stores and pubs.
https://theconversation.com/zero-alcohol-drinks-are-rising-in-popularity-what-do-young-people-think-about-them-289471

Le Monde.fr (Belgium) - Belgian brewers battle government's new alcohol-prevention slogan
As part of a package of public health measures, the Belgian government plans to require alcohol advertisements to carry the warning 'Alcohol is harmful to health.' The decision has sparked fierce opposition from brewers and the hospitality sector and created divisions within the ruling coalition.
https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2026/09/03/in-belgium-brewers-battle-government-s-new-alcohol-prevention-slogan_6757106_4.html

Biometric Update (UK) - ‘Policy intention is becoming much clearer’ on digital ID for UK alcohol sales
New guidance clarifies how certified digital IDs can be used for alcohol sales, while Europe continues to move ahead on digital age verification
https://www.biometricupdate.com/202609/policy-intention-is-becoming-much-clearer-on-digital-id-for-uk-alcohol-sales

News-Medical - Alcohol-related liver cancer deaths were falling. Then the trend reversed during the COVID-19 pandemic
In a recent study published in the journal npj Science of Food, researchers used data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2023 study to investigate global, regional, and national trends in alcohol-attributable mortality from four specific conditions (1990 to 2023).
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260901/Alcohol-related-liver-cancer-deaths-were-falling-Then-the-trend-reversed-during-the-COVID-19-pandemic.aspx

Nova News (South Africa) - Government pushes for zero percent alcohol limit for drivers
South Africa is moving towards a strict zero percent blood alcohol policy for drivers as part of efforts to reduce road deaths and injuries.
https://novanews.co.za/government-pushes-for-zero-percent-alcohol-limit-for-drivers/

Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine - Marshall University research identifies lasting brain changes associated with adolescent binge alcohol exposure
New research from the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine provides insight into how binge alcohol exposure during adolescence may cause lasting changes in brain function that persist into adulthood, potentially identifying a new target for future treatment approaches.
https://jcesom.marshall.edu/news/musom-news/marshall-university-research-identifies-lasting-brain-changes-associated-with-adolescent-binge-alcohol-exposure/

Total Croatia (Croatia) - Varaždin to Ban Sale of Alcohol in Shops After 22:00
The continental Croatian city of Varaždin is set to become to first continental city to introduce a ban on the sale of alcohol in shops and kiosks after 22:00.
https://total-croatia-news.com/news/varazdin-ban-alcohol/

PsyPost - Brain waves reveal how alcohol cues hijack decision-making in addiction
People with alcohol use disorder experience automatic emotional reactions to alcohol-related images that disrupt their basic decision-making processes.
https://www.psypost.org/brain-waves-reveal-how-alcohol-cues-hijack-decision-making-in-addiction/

Vital Strategies - Alcohol Is Too Cheap, and It’s Costing Lives and Tax Revenue
New report finds alcohol prices are abysmally low almost everywhere, and alcohol taxes mostly fail to realize their full public health and revenue potential.
https://www.vitalstrategies.org/alcohol-is-too-cheap-and-its-costing-lives-and-tax-revenue/

Voice of Nigeria (Nigeria) - Nigeria Launches New Alcohol Policy, Tightens Product Regulation
The Nigerian Government has launched a new national alcohol policy that introduces stronger measures to reduce alcohol-related health and social harms and tighten regulation of alcohol products.
https://von.gov.ng/nigeria-launches-new-alcohol-policy-tightens-product-regulation/

IAS blog - Beyond national statistics: understanding alcohol harm and recovery in homelessness
With homelessness back in the spotlight following Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s pledge to end rough sleeping in England, an important question remains: do we fully understand the scale and nature of alcohol-related harms experienced by people without a stable place to live?
https://www.ias.org.uk/2026/09/01/beyond-national-statistics-understanding-alcohol-harm-and-recovery-in-homelessness/

Public Health Scotland (Scotland) - Alcohol's hidden impact on health in Scotland
The Alcohol Consumption and Harms dashboard provides a detailed picture across all alcohol-related harms and the impact that they have on Scotland’s health.
https://publichealthscotland.scot/our-blog/2026/september/alcohols-hidden-impact-on-health-in-scotland/

SDU (Denmark) - Parents’ attitudes towards alcohol strongly influence young people’s drinking
Young people whose parents see drunkenness as a natural part of being young drink more than twice as much alcohol as other young people, according to a new report.
https://www.sdu.dk/en/sif/ugens_tal/ut_36_foraeldres_holdninger_til_alkohol_har_stor_betydning_for_unges_alkoholforbrug

NordAN (Greenland/Iceland) - Greenland looks to Icelandic prevention experience as it develops long-term alcohol policy
Greenland’s Minister for Health and Persons with Disabilities, Anna Wangenheim, visited Icelandic prevention organisation FRÆ on 24 August as part of a visit to Iceland connected with a meeting of Nordic health ministers.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/greenland-looks-to-icelandic-prevention-experience-as-it-develops-long-term-alcohol-policy

NordAN (Norway) - Norway considers expanding farm sales of alcohol amid EEA concerns
Norway is considering a significant expansion of direct alcohol sales from producers, a move that Actis warns could weaken Vinmonopolet and raise questions about whether the Norwegian alcohol retail system remains compatible with EEA rules.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/norway-considers-expanding-farm-sales-of-alcohol-amid-eea-concerns

NordAN (Finland) - Finland’s largest substance use prevention NGO says its entire operation is at risk
EHYT Finnish Association for Substance Abuse Prevention has announced restructuring negotiations covering its entire workforce, warning that anticipated cuts to government funding could threaten the organisation’s continued existence.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/finland-s-largest-substance-use-prevention-ngo-says-its-entire-operation-is-at-risk

Alcohol Awareness (Estonia) - Estonia launches “No Alcohol in September” campaign
Estonia’s National Institute for Health Development (TAI) and the Estonian Health Insurance Fund are once again inviting people to take part in the “No Alcohol in September” campaign and spend one month without alcohol.
https://alcoholcampaign.org/2026/09/03/estonia-launches-no-alcohol-in-september-campaign/

Alcohol News - 34/2026

Psychology Today - The Corks in My Drawer: Giving Up a Belief You Enjoyed Holding
I'm also a physician who studies substance use, which means I spent those same 15 years reading the alcohol literature. I watched the heart-healthy wine story fall apart in slow motion, and I kept buying wine the entire time. The interesting part is not the science. The interesting part is the lag.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-adolescent-ed/202608/the-corks-in-my-drawer-giving-up-a-belief-you-enjoyed-holding

SCOTUSblog (USA) - Alcohol at the Supreme Court
During the 2025-26 term, the justices pondered the Founding Fathers’ drinking habits as they considered a law barring habitual drug users from possessing guns. In the term ahead, they may return to the topic of alcohol in early America if they take up a case on a 19th-century law prohibiting at-home production of distilled spirits.
https://www.scotusblog.com/2026/08/alcohol-at-the-supreme-court/

Salk Institute - Isolation drives alcohol consumption through brain circuit that differs by sex
The COVID-19 pandemic tested us in many ways—how we handle crisis, isolation, health, loss, and so much more. Amidst all the conversations about how we cope, one topic came up again and again: alcohol.
https://www.salk.edu/news-release/isolation-drives-alcohol-consumption-through-brain-circuit-that-differs-by-sex/

University of Miami - Can AI Improve Public Awareness of Alcohol-Related Cancer Risks?
A study from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center found that cancer-specific messages paired with carefully reviewed, AI-generated visuals attracted more attention and increased perceptions of alcohol-related harm.
https://news.med.miami.edu/ai-messages-improve-awareness-alcohol-cancer-risks/

UNSW Sydney (Australia) - Repeal of the NT's Minimum Unit Price and the impact on alcohol pricing
Minimum Unit Price (MUP) is a public health policy that sets a minimum price per standard drink of alcohol. The policy is designed to prevent cheap, high-strength alcohol from being sold at very low prices.
https://www.unsw.edu.au/research/ndarc/resources/repeal-of-nt-minimum-unit-price-and-impact-on-alcohol-pricing

NPR (USA) - Penn State bust put focus on cocaine but on most campuses the big risk is alcohol
When Pennsylvania Attorney General David Sunday laid out details about an alleged drug ring that funneled kilos of cocaine to students at Penn State University, the case raised specters of the 1980s when coke was a popular party drug among young Americans.
https://www.npr.org/2026/08/24/nx-s1-5942987/cocaine-use-is-down-but-alcohol-is-still-being-abused-by-young-adults

IAS Blog - Alcohol and pancreatic cancer: an example of how alcohol-caused deaths are greatly under-estimated globally?
Expert committees are often called upon to adjudicate which causes of death, injury or illness meet criteria for being caused by alcohol use. We have participated in these discussions, whether under the auspices of the World Health Organization (WHO) or as members of groups developing national drinking guidelines.
https://www.ias.org.uk/2026/08/25/alcohol-and-pancreatic-cancer-an-example-of-how-alcohol-caused-deaths-are-greatly-under-estimated-globally/

Mirage (Australia) - Greens Target Predatory Alcohol Delivery, Ads
The Victorian Greens have introduced legislation to Parliament to rein in online alcohol delivery and advertising, after the Labor Government failed to act on repeated warnings about the role easy alcohol access plays in family violence and other serious harm.
https://www.miragenews.com/greens-target-predatory-alcohol-delivery-ads-1731809/

University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa) - Alcohol’s hidden calories: product labels could help fight obesity
South Africa is grappling with an obesity crisis. Nearly half of adults are overweight or obese. Public discussion often focuses on ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks as reasons for weight gain. But there’s another source of calories that’s often overlooked: alcoholic drinks.
https://www.wits.ac.za/news/latest-news/opinion/2026/2026-08/alcohols-hidden-calories-product-labels-could-help-fight-obesity.html

PopNAD (Finland) - Finland moves further away from the Nordic alcohol model
This summer, Finland took another step away from the traditional Nordic model of alcohol control. Through a series of reforms, alcohol has gradually become easier to buy, putting Finland on a different path from its Nordic neighbours. Now, Alko stores may open on Sundays, and home delivery of alcohol is on its way.
https://nordicwelfare.org/popnad/en/artiklar/finland-moves-further-away-from-the-nordic-alcohol-model/

American Institute for Cancer Research - Alcohol Increases Risk of Colorectal Cancer
New research provides strong evidence that drinking alcohol increases the risk of colorectal cancer. This is the case regardless of the tumor’s molecular subtype. The study reinforces current recommendations to limit or avoid alcohol to help reduce cancer risk.
https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/alcohol-increases-risk-of-colorectal-cancer/

NordAN (Denmark) - Denmark extends young test-purchaser scheme until 2028
Denmark has decided to continue using young test purchasers to check whether shops respect age limits for alcohol, tobacco and nicotine. On 27 August, the Folketing adopted L 12 B by 82 votes to 27, extending the temporary scheme until 30 June 2028 and revising fines for illegal sales to minors.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/denmark-extends-young-test-purchaser-scheme-until-2028

NordAN (Denmark) - Three in four young Danes feel pressure to drink alcohol
A new Danish survey shows that alcohol remains strongly connected to social life, particularly among young adults. Almost three in four Danes aged 18 to 34 say they experience an expectation to drink alcohol when socialising with friends and acquaintances.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/three-in-four-young-danes-feel-pressure-to-drink-alcohol

Alcohol Awareness (Denmark) - Stop the “Alcohol Reflex”
A new Danish campaign is encouraging young people to question the automatic role alcohol can play in parties and social life. Launched by Fuld af Liv, an initiative from the Danish Cancer Society (Kræftens Bekæmpelse) and TrygFonden, the campaign introduces the idea of the “alko-refleksen”, or “alcohol reflex”, describing drinking that happens almost automatically, without people stopping to consider whether they actually want another drink.
https://alcoholcampaign.org/2026/08/27/stop-the-alcohol-reflex/

Alcohol News - 33/2026

Forte (Sweden) - See the family member too – not just the person with a substance use probleem
Adult family members of people with harmful substance use need access to nuanced support that also addresses their own well-being. Better coordination and clearer division of responsibilities are also needed among social workers, family support counsellors, and alcohol and addiction therapists. This is shown in new research on social work services that provide support to family members.
https://forte.se/en/news/news/2026-08-19-see-the-family-member-too---not-just-the-person-with-a-substance-use-problem

Gallup News (USA) - Americans' Drinking Remains at Record Low
The share of Americans who say they drink alcohol remains at a record-low 54% for the second consecutive year, the lowest reading in Gallup’s trend dating back to 1939.
https://news.gallup.com/poll/713534/americans-drinking-remains-record-low.aspx

STAT (USA) - American Cancer Society cancels alcohol industry fundraiser
The American Cancer Society quietly canceled its upcoming Wine and Spirits Industry’s Gala, a spokesperson confirmed to STAT. The event, which has for decades raised money from members of the alcohol industry at a boozy Manhattan gathering, was set to take place in October at the iconic Rainbow Room.
https://www.statnews.com/2026/08/19/cancer-society-cancels-alcohol-industry-gala-fundraiser-deadliest-drug-series/

ABC News & Headlines – Australian Broadcasting Corporation (Australia) - Face of risky drinking 'quietly changing' in Australia
Increasing numbers of midlife women are turning to alcohol to soothe the negative effects of perimenopause but it might be worsening their symptoms.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-15/risky-drinking-perimenopause/107041914

The Medical University of South Carolina (USA) - You may have seen reports about drinking decline. Here’s what an expert wants you to know
But, he added: “Alcohol is still one of the leading preventable causes of death in the U.S. More people die every year from alcohol-related causes than any other substance use. More than opiate overdose. A lot of people don't realize that. It's quite pervasive.”
https://www.musc.edu/content-hub/News/2026/08/20/you-may-have-seen-reports-about-drinking-decline-heres-what-an-expert-wants-you-to-know

The Independent - Why I think it’s time to ban alcohol on flights
As incidents of air rage soar, one common factor keeps cropping up: alcohol. Global Travel Editor Annabel Grossman explains why she thinks it’s time to ground the in-flight drinks trolley in the latest Travel Insider newsletter.
https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/alcohol-ban-flights-air-rage-passengers-b3033019.html

Country News (Australia) - Booze delivery restricted under domestic violence plan
New laws restricting online alcohol delivery are among imminent measures following a landmark Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence.
https://www.countrynews.com.au/national/booze-delivery-restricted-under-domestic-violence-plan/

University of Rhode Island - URI nursing study seeks health practitioner perspectiveson alcohol, breast cancer association
While the relationship between alcohol use and cancer—specifically breast cancer—is well-established, evolving research and fluctuations in official recommendations can make it difficult to fully understand the level of risk alcohol poses, not just for patients but also for providers.
https://www.uri.edu/news/2026/08/uri-nursing-study-seeks-health-practitioner-perspectiveson-alcohol-breast-cancer-association/

Society for the Study of Addiction - Will mandatory alcohol labels make a difference?
With the UK Government’s ten-year health plan promising new alcohol labelling standards, Fiona Hughes examines the current system and whether clearer labels could help reduce alcohol-related harm.
https://www.addiction-ssa.org/features/essay/will-mandatory-alcohol-labels-make-a-difference/

The Korea Times (South Korea) - Drinking trend shift: Why more young Koreans are avoiding company dinners
The culture of pressuring people to drink alcohol at company gatherings and social events is gradually disappearing. Yet in some workplaces and social groups, the practice still persists. Younger Koreans are drinking less than previous generations, and the traditional pattern of moving from soju at a first-round dinner to draft beer at a second round is also becoming less common.
https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/southkorea/20260821/drinking-trend-shift-why-more-young-koreans-are-avoiding-company-dinners

NordAN (Norway) - Seven of nine Norwegian youth parties keep summer camps alcohol-free as FpU reviews its rules
Norway’s Progress Party Youth (FpU) has announced that it will review its alcohol rules following criticism of drinking at its summer camp, where around three in ten participants were under the age of 18.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/seven-of-nine-norwegian-youth-parties-keep-summer-camps-alcohol-free-as-fpu-reviews-its-rules

NordAN (Denmark) - Nearly four in ten young danes have gone swimming under the influence of alcohol or drugs
A swim can seem like the perfect way to end a warm summer day. But for a significant number of people, swimming takes place after drinking alcohol or using other substances. A new Danish survey commissioned by insurance company Gjensidige suggests that this is particularly common among young adults.
https://www.nordicalcohol.org/post/nearly-four-in-ten-young-danes-have-gone-swimming-under-the-influence-of-alcohol-or-drugs

Alcohol and Cancer (Ireland) - Study finds early signs of impact as alcohol health warnings begin appearing on products in Ireland
New research on alcohol warning labels in Ireland finds that alcohol health warning labels may help inform consumers about alcohol-related health risks, even before the labels become legally mandatory.
https://www.alcoholandcancer.eu/post/study-finds-early-signs-of-impact-as-alcohol-health-warnings-begin-appearing-on-products-in-ireland