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Monday, December 29, 2008

Alcohol News - week 52/2008

BBC News - Young 'ignore alcohol campaigns'

Health campaigns warning of the dangers of alcohol are being ignored by many young people who see binge drinking as acceptable, researchers say.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7801640.stm

guardian.co.uk - Regular binge drinking can cause long-term brain damage – study

Just a few sessions of heavy drinking can damage someone's ability to pay attention, remember things and make good judgments, research shows.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2008/dec/29/binge-drinking-brain-damage-study

Belfast Telegraph (Ireland) - New proposals to lower drink driving levels

Proposals to drastically reduce drivers drinking limits in Northern Ireland are to be unveiled in the near future, it was confirmed today.
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/new-proposals-to-lower-drink-driving-levels-14121944.html

Prague Daily Monitor (Czech Republic) - Nearly 3000 violate new Prague alcohol ban in six months

The Prague ban on drinking alcohol in some public areas that took effect on July 7 has been violated by nearly 3000 people on whom the police imposed fines worth some 850,000 crowns in total, Prague police spokeswoman Vilma Castova has told CTK.
http://praguemonitor.com/2008/12/29/nearly-3000-violate-new-prague-alcohol-ban-six-months

AFP (France) - Sour grapes for French wine in 2008

2008 has been all sour grapes for French wine, a once proud symbol of the nation's identity now swirling in a cocktail of alcohol abuse legislation.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5j55V-ToDel7ttAXHwE9TZR34boyw

GulfNews (United Arab Emirates) - Records show drastic drop in alcohol-related accidents

Alcohol-related cases have come down dramatically during the holiday season this year, usually the peak season for alcohol-related accidents, the Trauma Centre said.
http://www.gulfnews.com/nation/Traffic_and_Transport/10270755.html

United Press International - Too much beer, wine linked to cancer

Downing a pint of beer or large glass of wine every day increases the risk of liver and bowel cancer, says the World Cancer Research Fund in Britain.
http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2008/12/27/Too_much_beer_wine_linked_to_cancer/UPI-76351230408247/

Kyiv Post (Ukraine) - Kyiv restricts places where alcohol, tobacco can be sold

Kyiv municipal council restricted retail sales of liquor beverages and tobacco goods in the capital's outlet chain. This decision was supported Friday by 117 city council deputies, far more than the minimum 61 votes required.
http://www.kyivpost.com/city/32436

Globe and Mail (Canada) - Beneath a sobering portrait of a province's drinking habits

A new report sounds the alert about B.C.'s rising alcohol consumption, up 8 per cent since 2002. The pressing question now is - Will anyone take action?
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20081227.BCALCOHOL27/TPStory/National

Los Angeles Times - Living near alcohol sellers may affect youth drinking

The closer teens live to where alcohol is sold, the greater the seeming risk of binge drinking and driving under the influence.
http://www.latimes.com/features/health/la-he-capsule29-2008dec29,0,5979962.story

BarKeeper (EU) - EU's tax system on beer - 'disjointed'

The EU’s ‘disjointed’ tax system on beer is fuelling smuggling and harming brewers, according to Beer Pricing in Europe - a Taxing Question, a new in-depth report from Canadean on the tax weight on beer.
http://www.barkeeper.ie/News_Item.asp?News_ID=1583

Monday, December 22, 2008

Alcohol News - week 51/2008

Science Daily - Drinkers With Alcohol Dehydrogenase Gene Are At Greater Risk Of Colorectal Cancer

Chronic drinking is a risk factor for colorectal cancer, possibly through the effects of acetaldehyde, which is created by the alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) enzyme.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/12/081219172035.htm


Southern Maryland Online (USA) - Md. Settlement with MillerCoors Sees End to Alcoholic Energy Drinks

On Thursday, Dec. 18, Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler announced an agreement with MillerCoors that will result in the nationwide discontinuance of the country’s top-selling pre-mixed alcoholic energy drink, Sparks. As part of the 14 state agreement, MillerCoors will not produce any caffeinated alcohol beverages in the future.
http://somd.com/news/headlines/2008/9050.shtml

BBC News (Poland) - Polish drink-drive warning issued

A drink-drive warning has been issued in Polish after a number of people from the Eastern European country were caught over the limit by police.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/tayside_and_central/7795433.stm

MedIndia - Prenatal Exposure To Alcohol Linked To Cognitive Dysfunction Risk

The results of the study suggest that alcohol can damage white matter-nerve fibres through which information is exchanged between different areas of the central nervous system-in the frontal and occipital lobes of the foetus' brain, which are specifically relevant for executive functions and visual processing.
http://www.medindia.net/news/Prenatal-Exposure-To-Alcohol-Linked-To-Cognitive-Dysfunction-Risk-45468-1.htm

Washington Post (USA) - New Law Doesn't Supersede Neighborhood Agreements on Closing Times

The District's decision to extend last-call for bars and nightclubs during the inauguration week has its limits, officials said yesterday: Those businesses that have struck agreements in the past with neighborhood groups over hours and rules must honor them.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/19/AR2008121903392.html

ABC Online (Australia) - Darwin alcohol-related injuries 'staggering'

The head of Royal Darwin Hospital says the number of alcohol-related injuries presented to the emergency department is staggering.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/12/21/2452060.htm

New York Times - Query for Aging Patients: How Much Do You Drink?

Is alcohol a tonic or a toxin? The question is especially critical to older people, whose overall medical picture gives alcohol the potential to be a health benefit or a life-shortening hazard.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/16/health/16brod.html?em

Telegraph.co.uk (UK) - Six in 10 soldiers 'alcoholics'

The document analysing the drinking and drug-taking habits of Army recruits found that 58 per cent were "considered possibly dependent on alcohol" and drinking at levels considered a health hazard.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/3886170/Six-in-10-soldiers-alcoholics.html

Tasmanian Government Media Releases (Tasmania) - New Plan to Deliver Increased Support for Tasmanians Affected by Alcohol and Drugs

A new five year plan has been released paving the way for additional and improved services for Tasmanians affected by alcohol and drugs.
http://www.media.tas.gov.au/release.php?id=25630

InTheNews.co.uk (UK) - Cross-govt efforts 'failing' on binge-drinking

Warring government departments have hurt efforts to address Britain's growing drinking problem, it has been claimed.
http://www.inthenews.co.uk/news/health/politics/cross-govt-efforts-failing-on-binge-drinking-$1256406.htm

Irish Times (Ireland) - Drinks promotion not in breach of code

A DRINKS promotion by the students bar at University College Dublin for a "beer tower" of five pints of beer for €20 was not in breach of the Meas (Mature Enjoyment of Alcohol in Society Limited)code of practice on the naming, packaging and promotion of alcoholic drinks, an independent panel has found.
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2008/1222/1229728441776.html

Meadow Free Press (USA) - Alcohol Rehab A Must For Problem Drinkers Considering Pregnancy

Alcohol has been found to be acutely toxic to the fetus. And it doesn't take a lot of alcohol to cause these problems. A safe level cannot be defined — any alcohol during pregnancy is dangerous.
http://www.meadowfreepress.com/pregnancy/0,1873,408234,00.html

Helsinki Times (Finland) - Christmas without alcohol

The annual “Give your child a sober Christmas” campaign reminds people that alcohol, children and Christmas do not mix.
http://www.helsinkitimes.fi/htimes/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4671:christmas-without-alcohol&catid=33:general&Itemid=201

Marie Claire.co.uk - Female beer goggles last up to six months

Beer goggles last longer for women than for men and continue even when they’re sober, a new study has revealed.
http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/news/health/296045/female-beer-goggles-last-up-to-six-months.html

EurekAlert - Published reports inaccurate concerning alcohol consumption during pregnancy

A national alcohol research group is concerned that the media's misinterpretation of a recent British research study could encourage pregnant women to be more at ease with temperate alcohol consumption.
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-12/iu-pri121908.php

U.S. News & World Report (USA) - America's Top 10 Alcohol-Drinking Cities—and 10 Most Sober Cities, Too

With Christmas and New Year's almost upon us, you may be raising your glass and downing the spirits more than you're used to—along with many others. According to a nationwide poll released this year, most adults who attended work holiday parties said drunken bad behavior can often result.
http://health.usnews.com/articles/health/2008/12/17/americas-top-10-alcohol-drinking-cities--and-10-most-sober-cities-too.html

Washington Post - Moms-to-Be Who Drink May Damage Fetus' White Matter

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can damage white matter in a fetus' frontal and occipital lobes, which play a major role in executive function and visual processing. The finding may help explain problems seen in infants whose mothers drink during pregnancy, a new study says.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/19/AR2008121902538.html

The Publican (UK) - Mandatory drinks code closer to reality

Government plans to introduce a national mandatory code of practice for the industry took a step closer yesterday with the official tabling of a new Bill.
http://www.thepublican.com/story.asp?storycode=62255

Monday, December 15, 2008

Alcohol News - week 50/2008

EurekAlert - Alcohol and licensing policy could be changing the habits of young drinkers

In a new report published online today in the January issue of Addiction, researchers question whether current licensing policies have contributed to a rise in the phenomenon of "pre-drinking" amongst young people.
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-12/w-aal121508.php

TVNZ (New Zealand) - Alcohol major cause of drug rehab admissions

Alcohol has again topped harder drugs like ice and heroin as the addiction which drives the most Australians into crisis rehab.
http://tvnz.co.nz/health-news/alcohol-major-cause-drug-rehab-admissions-2421401

Washington Post Blogs (USA) - Renewed Call for Alcohol Labeling

A group of public health advocacy groups has seized the occasion of the advent of a new presidential administration to renew its five-year-old quest to persuade the federal government to require producers of alcoholic beverages to add informative labels to bottles.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/checkup/2008/12/renewed_call_for_alcohol_label.html

CNN International (USA) - Bush opens up on struggle with alcohol abuse

President Bush reflected on his own struggle with alcohol in a White House meeting Thursday that touted gains in the war on drug abuse.
http://edition.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/12/11/bush.alcohol/

Telegraph.co.uk - Faulty gene causes some people to become aggressive drunks

Alcohol appears to trigger violent behaviour in people who have a particular overactive gene.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/3776083/Faulty-gene-causes-some-people-to-become-aggressive-drunks.html

African Press Agency (Sudan) - Sudan gets £25 million ‘beer brewing’ investment

SAB Miller, one of the largest brewers in the world, has announced a £25 million beer plant investment in Muslim-dominated Sudan.
http://www.apanews.net/apa.php?page=show_article_eng&id_article=83026

Televisionpoint.com (India) - Govt is back to check surrogate advertisements of alcohol

To counter the growing demand for alcohol in the country, the Centre will consider restricting surrogate advertisements in television and other forms of media including print and outdoor space.
http://www.televisionpoint.com/news2008/newsfullstory.php?id=1229340653

Times Online - Smart kids are more likely to be heavy drinkers

Research has now shown a link between high childhood IQ and an adult enthusiasm for alcohol that leads in some cases to problem drinking.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/expert_advice/article5332469.ece

Daily Nation (Kenya) - Treasury spoils the party with new alcohol taxes

Alcoholic beverage makers were last week frantically lobbying to reverse new tax measures they say will result in an increase in prices and possible loss of jobs.
http://www.nation.co.ke/business/news/-/1006/501768/-/j3op7tz/-/

Portalino (Macedonia) - Macedonia restricts alcohol sales

Under new regulations, only licenced stores can sell alcohol products over the counter, and hours are limited.
http://www.portalino.it/nuke/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=34053

Science Daily - Genetics: Why Some Drinkers Feel Effects Of Alcohol Strongly, And Why Some Are Prone To Alcohol Abuse

Researchers at the UCSF Ernest Gallo Clinic and Research Center have identified a region on the human genome that appears to determine how strongly drinkers feel the effects of alcohol and thus how prone they are to alcohol abuse.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/12/081209154939.htm

Korea Times (South Korea) - Advice for Healthy Year-End Drinking

Irresponsible drinking of alcohol leads to serious health problems. Dr. Lee Jung-kwon of Samsung Medical Center warns that drinking too much alcohol not only harms the liver, but also the brain and other organs.
http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2008/12/117_36098.html

Times Online (UK) - Drinks industry says no to link with drugs plan

AN Irish government plan to include alcohol in its national drugs strategy is being opposed by the drinks industry.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/ireland/article5337895.ece

Ansa news in English (Italy) - Italy mulls drunk- driving rethink

A spate of recent drunk-driving accidents which has inflamed public opinion is prompting the government to consider plans that would effectively ban anyone who has drunk alcohol from driving.
http://www.ansa.it/site/notizie/awnplus/english/news/2008-12-15_115287025.html

Helsinki Times (Finland) - Finnish parliament passes alcohol duty rise

Finland’s Parliament on 8 December passed an alcohol duty rise unanimously with a number of lawmakers urging the government to propose further increases.
http://www.helsinkitimes.fi/htimes/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4546:finnish-parliament-passes-alcohol-duty-rise&catid=33:general&Itemid=201

IcelandReview (Iceland) - Iceland Increases Tariffs on Wine, Tobacco and Oil

Iceland’s Althingi parliament accepted new laws yesterday on increasing the tariffs on alcohol, tobacco, oil and automobiles by 12.5 percent as well as introducing a tax on driven kilometers and an excise tax on vehicles and fuel.
http://www.icelandreview.com/icelandreview/daily_news/?cat_id=21123&ew_0_a_id=316916

Monday, December 8, 2008

Alcohol News - week 49/2008

Wall Street Journal (EU) - Europe's Changing Drinking Habits: More Beer, Less Wine, Few Regrets

Europeans are supposed to sip wine in sidewalk cafés, not guzzle beer like American college students. But Europe's relationship with alcohol is changing. Countries like France and Italy, where good wine is considered a birthright, are seeing a surge in beer drinking among young people.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122842679622780557.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

YLE News (Finland) - Alcohol Main Cause of Death in Finland

The number of people who die from alcohol-related diseases or alcohol poisoning continues to rise. Alcohol remains the most common cause of death for men and women in Finland.
http://www.yle.fi/news/id109354.html

Telegraph.co.uk (France) - French doctor claims to have found 'chemical cure' for alcoholism

French cardiologist Dr Olivier Ameisen tested out baclofen on himself and was amazed by the effect it had on reducing his drinking.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/france/3681659/French-doctor-claims-to-have-found-chemical-cure-for-alcoholism.html

Ceylon Daily News (Sri Lanka) - Heavy fines on Alcohol, Tobacco Act violators

79.8 million has been collected as fines from Alcohol and Tobacco Act violators this year, a Health Ministry release said.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2008/12/08/news33.asp

Am J Clin Nutr - Alcohol and coronary artery calcium prevalence, incidence, and progression: results from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis

Alcohol use has been consistently found to have a J-shaped association with coronary heart disease, with moderate drinkers exhibiting a decreased risk compared with both heavy drinkers and nondrinkers. However, results of studies of the association between alcohol use and subclinical coronary artery disease are conflicting.
http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/88/6/1593

Southland Times (New Zealand) - Police issue pre-Christmas alcohol warning

As the pre-Christmas party season gets into gear, police are reminding people to watch alcohol consumption and ensure they have a ride home.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/southlandtimes/4786590a6568.html

MedIndia - Drug and Alcohol Abuse Increase ICU Admission Risk: Study

Researchers at LDS Hospital and Brigham Young University suggest that substance dependence increases medical costs by way of the intensive care unit.
http://www.medindia.net/news/Drug-and-Alcohol-Abuse-Increase-ICU-Admission-Risk-Study-44921-1.htm

ScienceAlert (Australia) - Youths ignore alcohol guidelines

National Health and Medical Research guidelines around alcohol consumption are at risk of being ignored by young people because they don’t take their drinking cultures into account, a Deakin University researcher has warned.
http://www.sciencealert.com.au/news/20080912-18556.html

Times and Transcript - Alcohol plays role in aggression

A new study of aggression in partner relationships shines a light on the role of alcohol consumption.
http://timestranscript.canadaeast.com/lifetimes/article/504883

Australian Food (Australia) - Alcohol advertising scrutinised at meeting of health ministers

Tougher restrictions on alcohol advertising have been tabled at a meeting of the nation’s health ministers, with NSW Health Minister John Della Bosca presenting the idea in Brisbane on Friday.
http://www.ausfoodnews.com.au/2008/12/08/alcohol-advertising-scrutinised-at-meeting-of-health-ministers.html

Sydney Morning Herald - iBreath to tackle drink driving

The latest weapon in the war against drink driving is a breathalyser linked to an iPod or iPhone.
http://www.smh.com.au/news/digital-life/mp3-players/articles/ibreath-to-tackle-drink-driving/2008/12/06/1228584626484.html

Stuff.co.nz (New Zealand) - The hidden alcoholics

The number of middle-aged women diagnosed as alcohol-dependent rose from 8 per cent to 16 per cent between 1996 and 2005, according to research by the University of Western Sydney, and yet they remain a secret factor in the nation's problem with alcohol.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/4786014a19716.html

Cardiosource - Alcohol Consumption and Risk of Incident Atrial Fibrillation in Women

This study suggests that women who consume alcohol in more than moderate amounts have an increased risk for atrial fibrillation. Compared to prior studies of men, women may experience an increased risk for atrial fibrillation at lower amounts of alcohol.
http://www.cardiosource.com/cjrpicks/CJRPick.asp?cjrID=4823

PR Leap - More and More Women Binge Drinkers Are Using Hypnosis To Stop Alcohol Binges, Finds JustBeWell.Com

Hynotherapists at the international firm JustBeWell are experiencing a signficant increase in the number of women using hypnosis to stop binge drinking.
http://www.prleap.com/pr/129834/

The Press Association (UK) - Marston's slams alcohol tax hike

Pubs group Marston's reported a 13% slide in profits and slammed this year's alcohol tax hikes as an "unwelcome" threat to the UK pub industry.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5g-y42BAwHPSHx2eUduUuYrxZ4wpw

Newsroom Finland (Finland) - Finnish Parliament passes alcohol duty rise

Finland's Parliament on Monday passed an alcohol duty rise unanimously with a number of lawmakers urging the government to propose further increases.
http://newsroom.finland.fi/stt/showarticle.asp?intNWSAID=20505&group=General

CNN (Russia) - Alcoholism in Russia amoung Highest in the World

In Russia, rates of alcohol consumption and homicide are among the highest in the world, and already-high levels increased dramatically after the breakup of the Soviet Union. Rates of both, however, vary greatly among Russia's 89 regions.
http://www.ireport.com/docs/DOC-158333

Monday, December 1, 2008

Alcohol News - week 48/2008

Henley Standard (UK) - Brewers attack Chancellor for increased tax

BREWERS and landlords have attacked the Chancellor over his “disgraceful” increase in alcohol tax.
http://www.henleystandard.co.uk/business/business.php?id=523253

Boston Channel.com - Alcoholism Eats At Young Men's Bones

Doctors know that alcoholism can cause low bone mass in older alcoholics, but they are also finding that younger men dependent on alcohol also are at a greater risk of fractures and poor healing.
http://www.thebostonchannel.com/health/18177507/detail.html

Times Online (UK) - Supermarkets selling alcohol cheaper than water

Research has found that it costs less to quench your thirst with alcohol than bottled water at leading supermarkets.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/health/article5264677.ece

Times of India - Abortions may cause drug, alcohol addiction

What’s more, after an abortion, women are 30 per cent more likely to have mental disorders as compared to other ladies, the research published in the British Journal of Psychiatry has revealed. The researchers came to the conclusion after reviewing 500 women.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Health/Abortions_may_cause_drug_alcohol_addiction/articleshow/3776154.cms

CatererSearch (UK) - Government to introduce restrictions on alcohol sales and promotions

The Government has confirmed that it will introduce mandatory restrictions on the sale and promotion of alcohol, including a ban on happy hours and all-you-can drink offers.
http://www.caterersearch.com/Articles/2008/12/01/325035/government-to-introduce-restrictions-on-alcohol-sales-and.html

Health Behavior News Service - Younger Alcoholic Men at Risk for Osteoporosis, Small Study Finds

Low bone mass, or osteoporosis, is a known consequence of alcoholism, especially in older alcoholics. However, a new study shows that younger male alcoholics are also at increased risk for osteoporosis. People with osteoporosis, no matter what the cause, are at an increased risk for fractures and poor fracture healing.
http://www.hbns.org/getDocument.cfm?documentID=1812

Stuff.co.nz (New Zealand) - More people being caught drink driving

An increase in the number of drink drivers has prompted fresh calls from police for a review of alcohol driving limits.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/4778972a11.html

IceNews (Finland) - Finland ups its alcohol tax to curb binge drinking

The government of Finland has reported that in 2009 the state tax on all alcohol sales will be increased by an additional ten percent. The rationale behind this move is a bid by the government to discourage heavy drinking, which is continuing to be a major social problem for Finns.
http://www.icenews.is/index.php/2008/11/30/finland-ups-its-alcohol-tax-to-curb-binge-drinking/

Reuters (USA) - 5 million in U.S. go to alcohol, drug self-help groups

About 5 million Americans attend meetings of self-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous for alcohol and drug abusers, and nearly half of them reported remaining clean, a federal study released on Monday showed.
http://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idUSTRE4AN7B920081124

Scotsman - Janey Godley: Alcoholism is the same illness no matter what job you do

MIDDLE-CLASS parents were berated last week for allowing their children to get pie-eyed drunk. So, all the previous warnings from government agencies about under-age drinking were aimed only at the lower-income end of society? Was this latest warning sent out to the posh folks on headed notepaper with a scented candle and some couscous?
http://news.scotsman.com/opinion/Janey-Godley-Alcoholism-is-the.4746610.jp

Times Online - Should alcohol carry health warnings? Yes

We believe there should be unit labelling on alcoholic beverages, as well as information at the point of sale. The Department of Health has proposed a standard message for bottles and cans which we think is good. The ideal label would include how many units the beverage contains and a health message saying “drinking to excess can harm your health”, or similar.
http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/public_sector/article5247974.ece

New Straits Times (Malaysia) - Selangor alcohol ban only for Muslims, minors

The Selangor government will not implement a blanket ban on alcohol in the state but will only restrict the sale of alcohol to Muslims and those below 18 years old.
http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Thursday/National/2413020/Article/index_html

CBC.ca (Canada) - 'We're in denial' on alcohol abuse, Inuit politician says

The Inuit government in Labrador is sending the wrong message about alcohol abuse, a member of the Nunatsiavut legislature said.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/north/story/2008/11/27/inuit-denial.html

International Herald Tribune (EU) - EU raises limits on duty-free items

New rules came into force Monday that will allow shoppers from the European Union to purchase more alcohol and other duty free products when they travel home from abroad.
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/12/01/europe/EU-EU-Duty-Free-Shopping.php

7thSpace Interactive - The cost-effectiveness of increasing alcohol taxes: a modelling study

Excessive alcohol use increases risks of chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease and several types of cancer, with associated losses of quality of life and life-years. Alcohol taxes can be considered as a public health instrument as they are known to be able to decrease alcohol consumption.
http://7thspace.com/headlines/298833/the_cost_effectiveness_of_increasing_alcohol_taxes_a_modelling_study.html

Ghanaweb (Ghana) - Alcoholism and the Coming Social Crisis in Ghana

The young person staggering home, evidently drunk and struggling to avoid the gutter near the “drinking spot”, couldn’t have been older than 20. That it was a woman, well-dressed with hair beautifully coiffed, was even more shocking. She was followed by a group of young men who taunted her. One even tried to grab her breasts, but she clumsily brushed him off, raining slurred insults on them as she zigzagged away.
http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/artikel.php?ID=153474

International Herald Tribune (Australia) - Australians debate government battle against booze

The blood oozes crimson from a jagged gash in the man's head onto the starched white hospital sheet. A booze-fueled bar brawl has left his face shredded, his brain damaged.
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/11/27/asia/AS-FEA-Australia-Drinking-Down-Under.php

Monday, November 24, 2008

Alcohol News - week 47/2008

The Associated Press (UK) - British may ban 'happy hour' as drink deaths rise

Britain is considering a ban on "happy hour" discounts at bars and restaurants to curb drinking, a spokesman said Saturday, as health advocates warned that a rise in liver-related deaths among young people may signal a future epidemic.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jzDStff1aDiVWKt1aHTfZs-2hIEwD94K2CCO0

ABC Online (Australia) - Public health group angered by alcopop tax loophole

The head of the Public Health Association says he is appalled alcoholic drink makers are using a loophole to avoid paying the 70 per cent tax hike on pre-mixed drinks.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/11/23/2427388.htm?section=justin

YLE News (Finland) - Study Forecasts a Decline in Finnish Alcohol Consumption

Finnish alcohol consumption appears to be finally levelling off. A study by the University of Kuopio's Fin-Drink research project has found that based on 40 years of historical data and consumption in other countries, Finns could soon start kicking the drinking habit.
http://www.yle.fi/news/id108394.html

WTOL (USA) - With worsening economy, some turn to alcohol to ease worries

The struggling economy is certainly changing the way we live, but for many, finding a way to escape the bad news is becoming more important.
http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=9400318

Aftenbladet.no (Norway) – No hangover - «Drink more!»

Alcohol-free drinks should have a higher status so that society's pressure to drink alcohol is lessened," says the Salvation Army.
http://www.aftenbladet.no/english/950431/No_hangover_-_«%3BDrink_more»%3B.html

Manila Standard Today (Philippines) - Recto says he prefers ad valorem tax on cigarettes, alcohol products

The chief of the National Economic and Development Authority prefers the revival of the ad valorem tax, instead of the imposition of specific tax on cigarettes and alcohol products, to instill fairness in the excise tax scheme for sin products.
http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=business5_nov24_2008

Courier Mail (Australia) - Experts push for bans on alcohol advertising

THE Rudd Government will be pressured to ban alcohol advertising because the industry has failed to regulate itself, a marketing expert says.
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,24695823-953,00.html

Science Daily - Exploring The Health And Protective Benefits Of Light To Moderate Alcohol Consumption

"I want to emphasize that none of the researchers on this roundtable panel recommends moderate alcohol consumption as a tried-and-true way of reducing the risks of heart disease or cognitive decline," said Collins.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/11/081120162845.htm

MarketWatch - Sex, Lies and Other Alcohol-Fueled 'Bad Behavior'

From sexual antics with co-workers to acts of violence and embarrassing text messages, alcohol fuels a number of "bad behaviors" at workplace and family holiday parties, according to a new study commissioned by Caron Treatment Centers, one of the nation's leading non-profit addiction treatment centers.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/Sex-Lies-Other-Alcohol-Fueled/story.aspx?guid=%7B5202E381-5FFB-47BF-BCEC-2E7E2844A70B%7D

Ivanhoe - The Genetics of Alcohol Abuse

DNA plays a role in the amount of alcohol you drink, researchers say. Among alcohol-dependent (AD) individuals, DNA variations in the brain’s serotonergic system influence drinking intensity. Specifically the serotonin transporter gene (SLC6A4) contributes to a person’s inclination to drink.
http://www.ivanhoe.com/channels/p_channelstory.cfm?storyid=20190

Cherokee Phoenix (USA) - Alcohol causes 12 percent of Native deaths

Almost 12 percent of the deaths among Native Americans and Alaska Natives are alcohol-related – more than three times the percentage in the general population, a federal report states.
http://www.cherokeephoenix.org/3062/Article.aspx

MSN Money UK - Are you a risky drinker?

There are at least eight million 'risky drinkers' in the UK, yet many of them will have no idea that their drinking is unhealthy at all. As the party season approaches, we take a look at what constitutes risky drinking and how to avoid the pitfalls.
http://style.uk.msn.com/wellbeing/healthyeating/article.aspx?cp-documentid=11042502

The Ranger (USA) - USA Today: Half of America's college students abuse drugs, drink alcohol

In an article dated March 15, 2007, USA Today reported "nearly half of America's 5.4 million full-time college students abuse drugs or drink alcohol on binges at least once a month." That article was based on a study by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University.
http://media.www.theranger.org/media/storage/paper1010/news/2008/11/21/BackPage/Usa-Today.Half.Of.Americas.College.Students.Abuse.Drugs.Drink.Alcohol-3556212.shtml

Telegraph.co.uk - Alcohol sports sponsorship 'fuels binge drinking'

Speaking in response to a study that showed a link between alcohol sponsorship and heavy drinking, Professor Ian Gilmore, president of the Royal College of Physicians, called for a debate on whether such deals should be banned.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/3478847/Alcohol-sports-sponsorship-fuels-binge-drinking.html

WalesOnline (Wales) - Police chief’s alcohol warning

WALES’ police officers are busy dealing with alcohol-fuelled murders and domestic violence rather than attending emergency call-outs, the chief constable of Wales’ largest police force said yesterday.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/2008/11/21/police-chief-s-alcohol-warning-91466-22307768/

Scotsman (Scotland) - Police chief attacks middle-class parents who let children drink

PARENTS who allow their children to get drunk in the family home are "beyond irresponsible" and "failing in their duty of care", says one of Scotland's most senior police officers.
http://news.scotsman.com/health/Police-chief-attacks-middleclass-parents.4722990.jp

Associated Press (Finland) - Finland to hike alcohol tax by 10 percent

Finland's government said it will hike the tax on alcohol by 10 percent next year in an attempt to discourage heavy drinking.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5j5or2L9Mlnp5z7mC1IfwjLkTErHQD94HE7380

Hürriyet (Turkey) - Alcohol tax changes on the horizon

The Ministry of Finance is set to change the how it implements the private consumption tax, or ÖTV, on alcoholic beverages.
http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/english/finance/10417210.asp?scr=1

Monday, November 17, 2008

Alcohol News - week 46/2008

New Zealand Herald - Sport-alcohol link nothing new: Alac

A study that found sports teams with alcohol sponsorships drank more heavily is nothing new, says Alcohol Advisory Council (Alac) chief executive Gerard Vaughan.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10543574

Belfast Telegraph (UK) - Why the alcohol limit for drivers must be cut as soon as possible

When I was 17, a friend of mine was killed by a drink driver. Hugh was also 17 — a young man with huge potential who could have been an engineer.
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/opinion/why-the-alcohol-limit-for-drivers-must-be-cut-as-soon-as-possible-14066001.html

KTUU - Study says deaths go down as alcohol taxes go up

A new study says higher taxes on alcohol is one way to stop so many people from being killed by diseases linked to alcohol abuse.
http://www.ktuu.com/Global/story.asp?S=9356868

PsychCentral.com - Multiple Factors Influence Teen Alcohol Misuse

Researchers have discovered characteristics present in the four social environments in which young people live — families, peers, schools, and neighborhoods — contribute both positively and negatively to whether teens misuse alcohol.
http://psychcentral.com/news/2008/11/17/multiple-factors-influence-teen-alcohol-misuse/3352.html

MarketWatch (USA) - Failing Economy, Alcohol Combine to Create Dangerous Holiday Season

With the deadliest holiday weekend of the year just around the corner and millions of Americans facing economic hardships, criminal courts across the country are gearing up for what could be record rates of alcohol abuse and crime this holiday season.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/Failing-Economy-Alcohol-Combine-Create/story.aspx?guid=%7B5F0B6B8B-1244-41C6-9A28-1698D567D758%7D

EurekAlert - Bottoms up: Individualists more likely to be problem drinkers

What makes residents of certain states or countries more likely to consume more alcohol? According to a new study in the Journal of Consumer Research, high levels of individualism lead to more problem drinking.
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-11/uocp-bui111708.php

Focus News (Romania) - Adevarul: Romanians allot more funds for alcohol than for education

Last year Romanians gave 6.5% of their budget for alcohol beverages, while they have allotted only 0.8% for education, an article in the Romanian daily Adevarul reads.
http://www.focus-fen.net/index.php?id=n159825

Courier Mail (Australia) - Alcohol may go the way of tobacco

Cigarette smoking was once so accepted in this country its use was almost universal. Sixty years ago, 72 per cent of all Australian men smoked; today, fewer than 25 per cent choose to light up.
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,24661728-13360,00.html

Telegraph.co.uk (UK) - Happy hours and cheap alcohol should be banned, say MPs

Happy hour drink promotions should be banned and supermarkets prevented from selling cheap alcohol at a loss to curb the binge-drinking violence blighting Britain, MPs have said.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/3411958/Happy-hours-and-cheap-alcohol-should-be-banned-say-MPs.html

BBC News (UK) - Plans for cheap drink clampdown

A ban on cut-price alcohol could be introduced next year under plans to curb alcohol abuse among young people.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/7732160.stm

Sydney Morning Herald (Australia) - PM's scare tactics to win battle of bottle

THE Rudd Government's $20 million anti-binge drinking advertising campaign will hit television screens on November 23, nine months after it was announced as the centrepiece of a national strategy to tackle the alcohol "epidemic".
http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/pms-scare-tactics-to-win-battle-of-bottle/2008/11/13/1226318837922.html

Marie Claire.co.uk (UK) - Women becoming bigger drinkers

A study by Cardiff University has discovered that women in their 30s and 40s are becoming the most irresponsible drinkers.
http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/news/health/282225/women-becoming-bigger-drinkers.html

Washington Post (Germany) - German Supply Lines Flow With Beer in Afghanistan

Last year, the German armed forces shipped more than 260,000 gallons of home-brewed suds to its troops serving in northern Afghanistan, as well as more than 18,000 gallons of wine.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/14/AR2008111403512.html?hpid=moreheadlines

Times of India (India) - Ramadoss plans national policy to curb sale of alcohol

After banning smoking in public places, health minister Anbumani Ramadoss is planning a campaign against alcohol by bringing in a national policy to regulate its sale in the country.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Ramadoss_plans_national_policy_to_curb_sale_of_alcohol/articleshow/3706195.cms

Reuters UK - Smoking, drinking linked to throat, stomach cancer

Drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes appear to increase the risk of certain common throat and stomach cancers, Dutch researchers reported on Monday.
http://uk.reuters.com/article/healthNewsMolt/idUKTRE4AG5Q220081117

Medical News Today - Calling For A Convention To Control Alcohol

According to an editorial published on bmj.com, there is an urgent need for international regulation of alcohol akin to the 2005 framework convention on tobacco control.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/128497.php

The Local (Sweden) - What do you think about Sweden's alcohol policy?

Every week a panel of readers will be giving their views on the burning issues of the hour. This week: Sweden's tough stance on alcohol.
http://www.thelocal.se/15476/20081105/

RIA Novosti (Russia) - Russia to form federal alcohol regulator - first deputy PM

The Russian government plans to establish a federal alcohol regulator and set minimum wholesale and retail prices for products, a first deputy prime minister said on Wednesday.
http://en.rian.ru/russia/20081112/118276613.html

Monday, November 10, 2008

Alcohol News - week 45/2008

Reuters (UK) - UK MPs want ban on cheap supermarket alcohol

Supermarkets should be banned from selling alcohol below cost price and time called on pub "happy hours" to halt a torrent of booze-fueled violence, a parliamentary committee said on Monday.
http://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idUSTRE4A91Y320081110

Times Online (UK) - Hundreds of children under 10 hospitalised with alcohol problems

A child under ten is admitted to hospital to be treated for alcohol-related problems once every three days in England, according to Government figures revealed today.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article5118537.ece

Irish Medical News (Ireland) - Alcohol burden on emergency departments

Alcohol is the starting point with almost all drug misuse and it is placing a huge burden on emergency departments (EDs), according to Dr Chris Luke, an emergency medicine consultant based in Cork University Hospital (CUH), who specialises in “nightlife” drugs.
http://www.irishmedicalnews.ie/index.php/component/content/article/1-news/432-alcohol-burden-on-emergency-departments

The Local (Sweden) - Swedish nurses oppose breast feeding alcohol guidelines

Swedish midwives and nurses continue to advise new mothers to abstain from alcohol when breast feeding, despite new guidelines saying that consuming alcohol in small quantities has no adverse effects.
http://www.thelocal.se/15582/20081110/

Kyiv Post (Russia) - Russia minister raises alarm over rampant alcoholism

Russia should revive the Soviet-era practise of compulsory treatment for alcoholics, the interior minister said on Friday.
http://www.kyivpost.com/world/30818

MarketWatch (USA) - Nickel a Drink to Save State Budgets

Public health advocates are calling on policymakers around the nation to follow the lead of California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to help fund ailing state budgets through higher alcohol taxes.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/Nickel-a-Drink-Save-State/story.aspx?guid=%7BB2CD2C0E-995D-4727-8AF9-3D014D2DDFF0%7D

Thaindian.com - Genes, brain area linked to teens susceptibility to alcohol dependence

Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have found in a study of teens that genetic factors can influence size variations a brain area, which can in turn be partly responsible for increased susceptibility to alcohol dependence.
http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/india-news/genes-brain-area-linked-to-teens-susceptibility-to-alcohol-dependence_100116185.html

Voice of America - Treating Anxiety Disorders in Children Long-Term Risks of Teen Alcohol Use

Children's mental health was the subject of two recent studies. One involved treatment of anxiety disorders, the other examined long-term effects of alcohol use in teenagers.
http://www.voanews.com/specialenglish/2008-11-04-voa2.cfm

Wausau Daily Herald - Experts say talking to kids is the key to preventing future drug abuse

There is no bad time to talk with children about the dangers of substance abuse, experts say.
http://www.wausaudailyherald.com/article/20081110/WDH0101/811100528/1981/WDHopinion

Times Online (UK) - Why women drink too much

Women in Britain are drinking too much - fact. But where does the party stop and the danger start? and at what point should we call time, ladies, please?
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article5092376.ece

Talking Retai - "Universal alcohol framework" called for

An universal framework for promoting alcohol should be put in place around the world so misuse is more stringently regulated, according to a new study.
http://www.talkingretail.com/news/independent-news/11411-quniversal-alcohol-frameworkq-called-for.html

Daily Telegraph (Australia) - Cops want zero blood alcohol for all drivers

POLICE and experts yesterday called for a zero tolerance policy on drink-driving in the wake of the death of four-year-old Tahlia Gilmour.
http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,24618061-5001021,00.html

BBC News - Map of the week: Booze, cost and consumption

As the government is urged to introduce a minimum price for alcohol to curb excessive drinking, I wondered how clear the relationship is between cost and consumption.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/thereporters/markeaston/2008/11/map_of_the_week.html

Science Daily - Alcohol Advice Needs To Play Greater Role In Sex Education For Teenagers, Experts Urge

Alcohol and attitudes are two of the key factors that health professionals need to be aware of when they are dealing with sexually active teenagers, experts are urging.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/11/081105083536.htm

Mmegi Online - Sales Of Beer Go Flat In Emerging Economies

Beer sales in emerging economies are cooling, sapping a key source of profit growth.
http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=4&aid=28&dir=2008/November/Monday10

Offlicence News (EU) - Europe relaxes rules on lower alcohol wines

The European Union has relaxed its stance on winemakers who take alcohol out of wine during production, in a move which could result in more wines of around 10% alcohol hitting the shelves.
http://www.offlicencenews.co.uk/articles/68621/Europe-relaxes-rules-on-lower-alcohol-wines.aspx?categoryid=9059

AFP (Spain) - Spaniards consuming less alcohol, tobacco and narcotics: study

Consumption of alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs was noticeably lower in Spain, a main entry point in Europe for cannabis and cocaine, during 2007-08, according to a government study released Tuesday.
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5hnpcjBKA1VuMGu2u3KuUALb2lpyA

Monday, November 3, 2008

Alcohol News - week 44/2008

The Baltic Times (Estonia) - Estonia’s battle with alcoholism

From the first day of November, a new amendment to the advertising legislation, one that focuses on alcohol advertisements, is taking effect in Estonia.
http://www.baltictimes.com/news/articles/21670/

Eurekalert - Parents comfortable with alcohol screening in pediatricians' offices

Parents are surprisingly receptive to being screened for alcohol problems during a visit to their child's pediatrician, including those who have alcohol problems. And if they need help, many parents would look to their pediatrician for a referral, according to a new study in the November issue of the journal Pediatrics.
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-11/bc-pcw102808.php

GMA news.tv (Philippines) - Bill simplifying alcohol, tobacco taxes could raise P31-B in revenues

Manila could raise as much as P31 billion only if the government would approve a bill simplifying “sin" taxes.
http://www.gmanews.tv/story/130947/Bill-simplifying-alcohol-tobacco-taxes-could-raise-P31-B-in-revenues

Telegraph.co.uk (UK) - Alcohol consumption doubles since the 1960s

The link between alcohol consumption and dementia is being ignored and unless urgent action is taken today's binge drinkers will be tomorrow's dementia patients, psychiatrists said.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/health/3333411/Alcohol-consumption-doubles-since-the-1960s.html

Thaindian.com (UK) - Alcohol, drug abuse sees 42,000 Brit pupils sent home

With substance abuse on the rise, around 42,000 Brit pupils have been sent home for alcohol or drug-related reasons in the past four years.
http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/india-news/alcohol-drug-abuse-sees-42000-brit-pupils-sent-home_100114558.html

Scotsman (UK) - Do we need new crackdown on drink adverts?

IN A RECENT television advert for Coors Light lager, two men and a woman were shown drinking in the mountains and singing a ragga-style song with the lyrics: "Hear me now! You taste so light, just like an eagle wing, up high in the Rockies gonna do ma ting. You taste so light, just like the arctic air, ice cold from the land of the grizzly bear."
http://news.scotsman.com/opinion/Do-we-need-new-crackdown.4652914.jp

MarketWatch (USA) - Seven States Still Force Prohibition-era Bans on Election Day Alcohol Sales

On November 4th, voters in seven states will be able to choose a president but not a bottle according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS).
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/Seven-States-Still-Force-Prohibition/story.aspx?guid=%7B9AB82F03-CF53-48F7-B637-BED38C9749AD%7D

Reuters (Australia) - Tough new alcohol laws to stop Sydney violence

In an effort to stem a wave of alcohol-related violence on Sydney's streets, authorities will no longer issue 24-hour liquor licenses and 50 pubs and clubs will be forced to lock-out patrons and serve drinks plastic glasses.
http://uk.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUKTRE49T1BW20081030

New Vision (Uganda) - Increase taxes on alcohol, activists urge Government

THE Government should increase taxes on alcoholic products so as to reduce its consumption and curb traffic accidents and alcohol-related ailments afflicting the masses, activists have said.
http://www.newvision.co.ug/D/8/13/657430

Bloomberg (India) - WTO Judges Reverse Ruling Over Indian Alcohol Taxes

World Trade Organization judges reversed a ruling that Indian duties on U.S. alcohol imports don't discriminate against products such as Brown-Forman Corp.'s Jack Daniels whiskey, backing the Bush administration's appeal.
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601091&sid=a6aEOZ9NEdYU&refer=india

ABC Online (Australia) - 50pc of homeless 'dependent on alcohol, drugs'

New research from the Australian National Council on Drugs (ANCD) shows a large percentage of homeless people are dependent on alcohol and drugs.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/10/31/2407019.htm?section=justin

Adv Psychiatric Treat - Brief alcohol interventions – everybody’s business

Heavy drinking poses a significant risk to public health in the UK. Opportunistic screening and brief interventions offer a cost-effective method of reducing the harm related to excessive alcohol consumption at both an individual and a public health level.
http://apt.rcpsych.org/cgi/content/abstract/14/6/469

BBC News (UK) - NHS alcohol services 'struggling'

The NHS is failing to get a grip on the growing alcohol problems in England, a watchdog says.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7695526.stm

CNN - Does drinking alcohol shrink your brain?

People who drink alcohol -- even the moderate amounts that help prevent heart disease -- have a smaller brain volume than those who do not, according to a study in the Archives of Neurology.
http://edition.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/diet.fitness/10/14/healthmag.alcohol.brain.shrinkage/

Voxy (New Zealand) - Health Vs Commercial Gain

The recent purchase of Liquorland by supermarket interests (Foodstuffs) demonstrates how ineffective our controls on alcohol are and just how vulnerable community health is to commercial interests.
http://www.voxy.co.nz/national/health-vs-commercial-gain/5/4975

WebProNews - Google Opens Door To More Alcohol Ads

The ads - which have been given a "Non-FamilySafe status" - are popping up all over related results pages. Ads for hard alcohol and liqueurs are not - they're still banned.
http://www.webpronews.com/topnews/2008/10/31/google-opens-door-to-more-alcohol-ads

AFP (France) - French winegrowers march against 'prohibition' plans

Winegrowers are alarmed by plans, unveiled in a health ministry bill last week, to ban open bars and the handing out of free alcohol, which would include tastings in winegrowers' cellars.
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5hSfDxv2QPmA1t-_jD3vXBGsmGCeA

Irish Times (EU) - Call for EU co-operation to fight drug crime

Speakers at the conference expressed concern that the EU strategy focused on drugs, without any emphasis on the harm done by alcohol.
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2008/1103/1225523317412.html

Business World - Excise taxes on liquor violating WTO rules

THE FINANCE DEPARTMENT is using a new argument in its bid to raise vice taxes, pointing out that indigenous wines are enjoying lower excise taxes in violation of international trade rules.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW110308/content.php?id=055

Monday, October 27, 2008

Alcohol News - week 43/2008

Talking Retail (UK) - Supermarket alcohol 'a third cheaper'

Shoppers are paying up to a third less for alcohol in shops than they were ten years ago, according to new figures.
http://www.talkingretail.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11277:supermarket-alcohol-a-third-cheaper&catid=1:industry-news&Itemid=16

Bangkok Post (Thailand) - A sober protest

Prohibitionists claim that listing Thai Beverage on the Stock Exchange will harm society, and they plan to rally at the bourse on Monday to try to block another attempt to trade shares in the country's biggest maker of both beer and whisky.
http://www.bangkokpost.com/topstories/topstories.php?id=131657

Telegraph.co.uk (UK) - Third of routine drinkers get potentially fatal liver damage

A study at University College London found an unexpectedly high level of liver abnormalities among "normal working people" who consume more alcohol than average but would not regard themselves as alcoholics.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/health/3264478/Third-of-routine-drinkers-get-potentially-fatal-liver-damage.html

The Canberra Times (Australia) - Call to outlaw alcohol ads

The Salvation Army has called for a crackdown on alcohol advertising, after a damning report on alcohol's effects on families.
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/news/general/call-to-outlaw-alcohol-ads/1338734.aspx

Reuters UK - Childhood IQ possibly linked to adult alcohol use

Contrary to expectations, higher intelligence scores at age 10 may be associated with higher levels of alcohol intake and alcohol-related drinking problems during adulthood, study findings suggest.
http://uk.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUKTRE49K6ZS20081021

Dailynews (Botswana) - Abuse contributes to increasing crime

Seven out of 10 people accused of serious crimes allegedly committed the offences under the influence of alcohol.
http://www.mcst.gov.bw/dailynews/newsdetails.php?id=10947

Bloomberg (Botswana) - Botswana Government to Introduce 30% Levy on Alcohol

Botswana will introduce a 30 percent levy on all alcoholic beverages on Nov. 1 after a local brewer withdrew a court case against the measure, the government said.
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601116&sid=aFfjLHH2JptM&refer=africa

Tundra Drums (USA – Alaska) - Beating fetal alcohol syndrome in Alaska

The prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in Alaska is higher than in many other states, says Dr. Christiane Brems, professor of psychology from the University of Alaska Anchorage.
http://thetundradrums.com/news/show/3605

Telegraph.co.uk (UK) - Supermarket shoppers could be forced through alcohol-only checkout

Supermarket shoppers buying alcohol could be forced to do a 'walk of shame' to a special alcohol-only checkout counter under new plans being considered by the Government.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/health/3237856/Supermarket-shoppers-could-be-forced-through-alcohol-only-checkout.html

Times of India - Binge drinking 'bad for bones'

Taking alcoholic beverages in moderation may be okay, but binge drinking can can be bad for bones, a new study has revealed.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/HealthSci/Binge_drinking_bad_for_bones/articleshow/3640565.cms

CNN International (UK) - Britons lose taste for pint as crunch bites

The iconic British pint has become the latest victim of the global credit crunch, with total beer sales dropping around 7 percent in the third quarter of this year.
http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/europe/10/27/beer.britain.pints.sales.ap/?iref=mpstoryview

Baltic Business News (Estonia) - Alcohol affects image of Estonian builders working in Finland

The generally good image of Estonian construction workers in Finland is being affected by alcohol use.
http://balticbusinessnews.com/Default2.aspx?ArticleID=8bdad735-64df-44c7-b0f9-9b022a4ccdb8&ref=lastadd

Medscape - Binge Drinking Linked to Stroke Risk

Binge drinking is an independent risk factor for all strokes and for ischemic stroke, according to the results of a prospective cohort study reported in the October 2 Online First issue of Stroke.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/582435

Times Online - One little glass can't hurt an alcoholic, can it?

Claire had been sober for two years when she began a relationship with another recovering alcoholic. One evening at his house he made a suggestion. “How do you think we would react if we had just one drink?” he asked.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article5009583.ece

Monday, October 20, 2008

Alcohol News - week 42/2008

The Age (Australia) - Families reel from alcohol abuse

ALCOHOL abuse is having a devastating impact on families, with new figures showing one in five Australians has had arguments with family members who were influenced by alcohol, while one in 10 has had physical fights with relatives.
http://www.theage.com.au/national/families-reel-from-alcohol-abuse-20081020-54tj.html

Hürriyet (Turkey) - Turkey's Islamist-rooted AKP to propose new bans on alcohol

Certain limitations on alcohol put forward in a draft regulation prepared by a government institution is being perceived as a blanket alcohol ban in Turkey, according to several media reports.
http://www.hurriyet.com.tr/english/domestic/10164400.asp?scr=1

MarketWatch (USA) - Non-Students Report More Dangerous Behaviors Than College Student Peers

The Century Council, a not-for-profit organization funded by distillers dedicated to fighting drunk driving and underage drinking, commissioned a new national survey of young adults (18-24 year olds) including college students and non-students to investigate the impacts of college attendance and an active and healthy lifestyle, including involvement in sports, on underage drinking behaviors.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/non-students-report-more-dangerous-behaviors/story.aspx?guid=%7B0CD7A162-6CA1-4A01-B207-C037DA9D9006%7D&dist=hppr

HealthNews - Alcohol Intake Increases Risk for Breast Cancer

Ask most women what would put them at high risk for breast cancer and the likely answer would be genetics, a close relative having suffered from the disease.
http://www.healthnews.com/family-health/womens-health/alcohol-intake-increases-risk-breast-cancer-1972.html
also
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7675843.stm

Jawa Report - Alcohol Shrinks Brains, Coffee Shrinks Breasts

According to a study published in the Archives of Neurology, people who drink alcohol have a smaller brain volume than people who don't drink alcohol.
http://mypetjawa.mu.nu/archives/194484.php
also
http://www.boston.com/news/science/articles/2008/10/20/study_links_drinking_brain_size/

The Local (Sweden) - New study: 'Alcohol and team sports go hand in hand'

A Swedish researcher has warned that the incidence of alcohol abuse within team sports remains a serious problem. Team managers are criticized for double standards and condoning the practice.
http://www.thelocal.se/15060/20081019/

Sky News (UK) - Most Want Lower Drink Drive Limit

A poll suggests more than three-quarters say a reduction of the legal limit to 50mg would be a good thing.
http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-News/Drink-Drive-Limit-Most-People-Would-Back-A-Lower-Limit/Article/200810315122550?lpos=UK_News_Second_Home_Page_Article_Teaser_Region_1&lid=ARTICLE_15122550_Drink_Drive_Limit%3A_Most_People_Would_Back_A_Lower_Limit

Afrique en ligne (Botswana) - Botswana govt backs down on 'alcohol levy'

The government of Botswana has backed down on its decision to impose a 30 per cent levy on alcoholic beverages to curb excessive drinking in the African nation, the local press reported.
http://www.afriquenligne.fr/botswana-govt-backs-down-on-'alcohol-levy'-2008101914035.html

AFP - Early teen drug, alcohol use ups sex and behaviour risks

Children who try drugs or alcohol before age 15 run a greater risk of being substance-dependent as adults, contracting sexually transmitted diseases, dropping out of school or being convicted of a crime, a study showed.
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5iY1NhJ8bqtXFznVUVFEWBj06H3fQ

decanter.com (UK) - Drinkaware: 'one in six worried about drinking habits'

One in six people are worried about the amount of alcohol they are drinking at home, based on the number of bottles and cans they recycle, new research shows.
http://www.decanter.com/news/270368.html

Times Online (UK) - Drug abuse a 'cause not effect' of social problems

Drug or alcohol abuse among children under the age of 15 is a cause and not an effect of a host of health and social problems, research has suggested.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/science/article4958885.ece

Independent Online (South Africa) - Free foetal alcohol syndrome tests

In an attempt to help curb the spread of foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), the City of Cape Town is expanding its free testing, screening and growth monitoring services to all city clinics.
http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=125&art_id=vn20081016055012469C290297

The Press Association (UK) - Police plea over new drinking laws

Late-night drinking is a "significant drain" on police resources, the Government is due to be told.
http://ukpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5j4YpplnVBhJOzfU-YEBfaNH0_usw

Otago Daily Times (New Zealand) - Use of alcohol or drugs by teenagers doubles risk of damage

Young people using alcohol or other drugs before the age of 15 more than double the risk of damaging their adult health, research just published says.
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/27890/use-alcohol-or-drugs-teenagers-doubles-risk-damage

BBC News (UK) - Bars facing ban on free alcohol

The drinks industry has condemned draft government proposals which could ban bars from giving free alcohol to women.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7665793.stm

Telegraph.co.uk (UK) - Drivers to be given random breath tests

Drivers face random breath testing regardless of how they are driving, under government plans to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries caused by drink driving.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/lawandorder/3222054/Drivers-to-be-given-random-breath-tests.html

The Baltic Course (Lithuania) - Lithuanian Seimas restricted time for selling alcohol

It is prohibited to sell alcoholic beverages from 10:00 p.m. till 8:00 a.m. at retail trade companies in Lithuania, except the cases restricted by municipal councils.
http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/legislation/?doc=6157

The Baltic Course (Latvia) - Excise tax on alcohol and tobacco to be increased in Latvia

Latvia will increase the excise tax on strong spirits and tobacco, as show the amendments to the "Law on Excise Tax", which the government approved yesterday.
http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/markets_and_companies/?doc=5642

Monday, October 13, 2008

Alcohol News - week 41/2008

NEWS.com.au (Australia) - Police chief Andrew Scipione attacks Sydney's alcohol culture

THE most senior policeman in New South Wales wants pubs and clubs to close early, claiming Sydney's soaring rate of alcohol-fuelled violence is worse than Los Angeles.
http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,24486429-2,00.html

Irish Times (Ireland) - Alcohol use unclear in road deaths, says expert

THE ROLE of alcohol in fatal crashes here has been significantly underestimated, road safety experts believe.
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2008/1013/1223680465065.html

BBC News (UK) - Bars facing ban on free alcohol

The drinks industry has condemned draft government proposals which could ban bars from giving free alcohol to women.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7665793.stm

KFOXtv.com - Little Alcohol Goes Longer Way In Women

Women are more vulnerable than men to the effects of alcohol, both the good and the bad, according to the Harvard Health Letter.
http://www.kfoxtv.com/health/17685549/detail.html

Scotsman (UK) - Drink advice 'stigmatises' mums-to-be say medics

HEALTH advice urging mothers-to-be to give up alcohol during their pregnancy should be scrapped, according to senior Lothian medics.
http://news.scotsman.com/scotland/Drink-advice-39stigmatises39-mumstobe-say.4582856.jp

Telegraph.co.uk (UK) - Admissions to mental wards for drugs and alcohol up a third

More than 47,000 patients were admitted in 2006, 10,000 more than in 2003, due to the effects of drink or drugs.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/health/3165554/Admissions-to-mental-wards-for-drugs-and-alcohol-up-a-third.html

PR Newswire (USA) - Trauma Surgeons Find a Significant Number of Moped Crashes Involve Intoxicated Drivers

In a study presented at the 2008 Clinical Congress of the American College of Surgeons, trauma surgeons reported a high association between moped driver injuries and positive alcohol levels greater than 0.05 mg/dL.
http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/10-13-2008/0004902828&EDATE=

Mmegi Online (Botswana) - Alcohol economics and politics: the case for policy activism

An extra-ordinary public debate has been unleashed by the policy activism of the current national political leadership towards dealing with the challenges of alcohol abuse in the country.
http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=2&aid=15&dir=2008/October/Thursday9

Telegraph.co.uk (UK) - Drink prices must rise to cut alcohol deaths, doctors advise

They believe Government and industry measures to tackle binge drinking are failing, and that more needs to be done to reduce the toll of alcohol-related deaths.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/health/3163216/Drink-prices-must-rise-to-cut-alcohol-deaths-doctors-advise.html

Focus News (Bulgaria) - We still cannot achieve 50% drop in road toll by 2010: traffic police chief

People have to be repeatedly told that alcohol is an enemy to driving so that they can gradually realize the danger, said Traffic Police Chief Commissary Alksi Stratiev, quoted by Focus News Agency.
http://www.focus-fen.net/index.php?id=n155927

Xinhua (Greece) – Alcohol abuse by young, women rising in Greece

Doctors have warned of an alarming rise in the number of young people and women that consume excessive amounts of alcohol in Greece, saying that hospitals were having to deal with more patients in these groups suffering from problems linked to drinking alcohol.
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-10/08/content_10162553.htm

WalesOnline (Wales) - Wales’ bid to rein in substance use

Chief Medical Officer for Wales Dr Tony Jewell stresses how big an effort will be needed to tackle the problem poisoning youth.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/health-news/2008/10/13/wales-bid-to-rein-in-substance-use-91466-22019923/

Evening Telegraph (UK) - ‘Zero drink limit for young drivers working in other countries’

Tayside health chiefs have added their voices to a campaign to impose a zero alcohol limit for newly-qualified drivers.
http://www.eveningtelegraph.co.uk/output/2008/10/13/story12094258t0.shtm

The Local (Sweden) - Sweden contemplates alcohol locks for drunk drivers

A new form of punishment for drunk drivers under consideration in Sweden would allow some offenders to keep their driver’s licences provided they installed an alcohol lock on their vehicles.
http://www.thelocal.se/14872/20081010/

Monday, October 6, 2008

Alcohol News - week 40/2008

Xinhua (WHO) - WHO to host public hearing to explore ways of reducing alcohol use

The World Health Organization (WHO) will organize a web-based public hearing to explore ways of reducing harmful use of alcohol, the UN agency said on Thursday.
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-10/03/content_10143408.htm
also
http://www.who.int/substance_abuse/activities/hearing/en/index.html

Telegraph.co.uk (Scotland) - More than half of young offenders in Scotland blame alcohol for their crimes

The most comprehensive study yet into drinking and violence in Scotland found 56.8 per cent of offenders said their actions had been fuelled by drink, compared with 40 per cent in 1996 and 29.5 per cent in 1979.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/scotland/3146193/More-than-half-of-young-offenders-in-Scotland-blame-alcohol-for-their-crimes.html

The Scotsman (Scotland) - New legal threat to SNP's alcohol crackdown

A SECOND plank of the Scottish Government's flagship approach to tackling the country's booze culture appeared under threat last night.
http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/latestnews/New-legal-threat-to-SNP39s.4560404.jp

guardian.co.uk (UK) - Parents 'naive' about drug use by children

Nearly all parents are convinced that their children have never taken drugs, according to a survey that suggests parents are woefully unaware of their offspring's lives.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2008/oct/06/drugsandalcohol.children

The Press Association (UK) - Tories campaign against alcohol ban

The Tories stepped up their campaign against controversial Scottish Government plans to ban under-21s from buying alcohol in off-sales with a new postcard campaign.
http://ukpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5jrrVJ0m8fvMUrgnXyzEEj2tsQz7A

Talking Retail (UK) - Supermarkets 'selling alcohol at 80s prices'

Supermarkets are in many cases selling alcohol at 1980s prices, according to a new investigation.
http://www.talkingretail.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11041:supermarkets-selling-alcohol-at-80s-prices&catid=1:industry-news&Itemid=16

Science Centric - 'Casual' smokers have a greater risk of hazardous drinking and alcohol-use disorders

Non-daily or 'casual' smokers tend to slip through the cracks of prevention efforts. Yet casual smoking and heavy drinking are prevalent behaviours among young adults and, furthermore, casual smoking occurs primarily in the context of alcohol use.
http://www.sciencecentric.com/news/article.php?q=08100612

BBC News (UK) - Lower drink-drive limit rejected

The government has decided against reducing the legal limit for alcohol in a driver's blood despite suggestions it could save 65 lives a year.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7654272.stm

Times Online - Long hours and stress drive lawyers to drink and drugs

A culture of long hours and stress are driving increasing numbers of lawyers to drink and drugs, both within and outside the workplace.
http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/law/article4887683.ece

The Press Association - MSPs vote against new alcohol law

Justice secretary Kenny MacAskill has vowed to listen to the views of local communities and the police after MSPs voted against controversial plans to ban under 21s from buying drink in off-sales.
http://ukpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5is5kZqIemLL2AES-bxeQNC_nSSYw

Thaindian.com (Japan) - Women more vulnerable to alcohol’’s long-term effects

Women are more likely to have long-term effects of alcohol than men, says a new study.The new research from Japan has revealed that women break down alcohol more slowly than men do.
http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/india-news/women-more-vulnerable-to-alcohols-long-term-effects_100103724.html

Sunday Standard (Botswana) - A culture of intolerance is killing our public debates!

It is sad, even distressing, to note a hardening of tones in the discourse of public debates between the government and the ordinary people in our country.The last few years have seen a continuous dwindling of space for open and tolerant public debates.
http://sundaystandard.info/news/news_item.php?NewsID=3851&GroupID=5

AFP - Cannabis less harmful than drinking, smoking: report

Cannabis is less harmful than alcohol or tobacco, according to a report by a research charity Thursday, which called for a "serious rethink" of drug policy.
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5ijdsMMxfVn240B501n16OjSGnXbw

ireport (USA) - McCain and Alcohol money

The alcohol lobby is one of the most influential in Washington. Although McCain has recused himself on alcohol issues, he has not refused the industry's money.
http://www.ireport.com/docs/DOC-104248

United Press International - Strict social rules linked to alcohol

Countries with strict social rules and etiquette such as Britain may foster drinking cultures characterized by unruly or bad behavior, researchers said.
http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2008/10/03/Strict_social_rules_linked_to_alcohol/UPI-91081223088149/

Bloomberg (Botswana) - Botswana President Wants Alcohol Consumption Cut to Curb AIDS

Alcohol consumption in Botswana, where the government plans to implement a 30 percent levy on beer, wine and spirits, needs to be curbed to prevent the spread of HIV, President Ian Khama said.
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601116&sid=awRndp8Dzk1g&refer=africa

Newsroom Finland (Finland) - Finland's Korhonen calls for immediate alcohol duty rise

Jarmo Korhonen, the Finnish Centre party secretary, said Friday that the government should raise alcohol duties forthwith.
http://newsroom.finland.fi/stt/showarticle.asp?intNWSAID=19905&group=Politics

EurActiv (Romania) - Romania defies Commission by lifting alcohol duties

The lower chamber of the Romanian Parliament has unanimously voted to eliminate excise duty on traditional home-brewed hard drinks, despite the very fact that it is required to collect excise on home-brewed alcohol under the terms of its EU accession treaty.
http://www.euractiv.com/en/enlargement/romania-defies-commission-lifting-alcohol-duties/article-176004