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Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Alcohol News - 52/2016

Washington Post - For women, heavy drinking has been normalized. That’s dangerous.
The ads started popping up about a decade ago on social media. Instead of selling alcohol with sex and romance, these ads had an edgier theme: Harried mothers chugging wine to cope with everyday stress. Women embracing quart-sized bottles of whiskey, and bellying up to bars to knock back vodka shots with men.
Sky News (Australia) - Total alcohol ban issued for Coogee beach
Sydney's Coogee Beach is now an alcohol-free zone after 15 tonnes of rubbish was left to clean up on Christmas Day.
Daily Mail - Your brain on alcohol: Experts reveal what REALLY happens when you get drunk
Whether you plan to toast the New Year with champagne or liquor, every alcoholic drink will have one thing in common – the mind-altering molecule ethanol.
The Sydney Morning Herald (Australia) - Cricket has a dangerous relationship with alcohol
If you spent any time watching TV during the Australian summers of the late '70s or early '80s, chances are the Tooheys beer "How do ya feel?" cricket ads are seared on your memory.
The Conversation UK - When media use pictures of drunk girls in alcohol stories, we’re being misled
When the English artist William Hogarth produced his infamous engravings of prosperous “Beer Street” and chaotic “Gin Lane” in the mid-18th century, it reflected efforts to control London’s supposed gin crisis.
RT (Russia) - Most Russians want govt to raise minimum alcohol-purchase age
About three quarters of Russians would support the increase of minimum legal age of alcohol purchase from current 18 to 21 years, the state-run VTSIOM public opinion research center reports.
The Times (UK) - Middle aged in denial over alcohol and weight
The vast majority of middle-aged adults drink too much alcohol, are overweight or exercise too little, official figures show.
South African Broadcasting Corporation (South Africa) - Cape Town alcohol consumption a concern
The City of Cape Town says the amount of alcohol it has confiscated on beaches is of serious concern! More than 7000 litres of liquor has been confiscated from beach goers since the start of the festive season.
Medical News Today - Going dry for January? How reducing alcohol intake can benefit health
Do you plan to exercise more? Lose weight? Quit smoking? How about cutting down on alcohol intake? While that last question may have prompted a highly resistant shake of the head from many readers who enjoy their after-work beer or a glass of wine with dinner, there is no better time to review your alcohol intake.
Medical Daily - Alcohol And Your Eyes: 6 Ways Excessive Drinking Can Impair Your Vision
A night of heavy drinking may cause you to develop a pair of the dreaded “beer goggles,” but drinking large amounts of alcohol over a long period of time can damage a number of body parts, your eyes included.
Irish Independent (Ireland) - More than 1,000 children contact Childline on Christmas Day with alcohol abuse at home among issues
CHILDLINE got 1,040 contacts from children across Ireland on Christmas Day, the ISPCC has said, with alcohol abuse in the home one of themes rased.
The Local Spain (Spain) - Spain proposes fines for parents of underage drinkers
Spain’s new health minister has revealed that she wants to pass a law which would see parents of underage drinkers fined if they refused to take their children to special 'awareness courses' on drinking.

Monday, December 26, 2016

FASD News - 51/2016

 NEWS and ARTICLES
Healthline - The Best Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Blogs of 2016
We’ve carefully selected these blogs because they are actively working to educate, inspire, and empower their readers with frequent updates and high-quality information.
CBC.ca (Canada) - Parliament spikes FASD bill, Yukon MP and advocates disappointed
Yukon MP Larry Bagnell says he's disappointed in his fellow MPs for rejecting his bill that would allow special treatment of people with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) involved in the criminal justice system.
CBC.ca (Canada) - 'I felt like I wasn't alone anymore': Edmonton child diagnosed with FASD after battle for testing
An Edmonton woman says her family has the help it needs after her niece was finally tested and diagnosed with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder last month.
Whitecourt Star - Professionals warn that risk of FASD not worth it for holiday tipplers
As holiday festivities are kicking off, professionals are urging caution to those who may be pregnant, or are planning on it.
Medical Xpress (USA) - As more women drink, some states take action
Little has changed when it comes to America's alcohol problem, with one exception: substantially more women are drinking compared to a decade ago, and a higher percentage of them are binge drinking.
Newcastle Advertiser (South Africa) - Save your unborn child and abstain from liquor
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a harsh reality, which affects babies who are born to women who drink. In an attempt to raise awareness about the syndrome, September 9 has been earmarked as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Awareness Day.
The Washington Post - For women, heavy drinking has been normalized. That’s dangerous.
The ads started popping up about a decade ago on social media. Instead of selling alcohol with sex and romance, these ads had an edgier theme: Harried mothers chugging wine to cope with everyday stress. Women embracing quart-sized bottles of whiskey, and bellying up to bars to knock back vodka shots with men.

RESEARCH
Alcoholism - Fetal Alcohol Exposure Alters Blood Flow and Neurological Responses to Transient Cerebral Ischemia in Adult Mice
Although FASD is associated with lifelong intellectual disability, the mechanisms mediating the emergence of secondary mental health and physical disabilities are poorly understood.
Research in Developmental Disabilities - Intervention recommendations and subsequent access to services following clinical assessment for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) and prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) experience multiple difficulties requiring various interventions. Researchers have called for investigation into service use with respect to clinically recommended interventions.
Alcoholism - An ERP Study of Response Inhibition in the Auditory Domain in Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Previous event-related potential (ERP) studies of response inhibition in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) have used a visual Go/NoGo task to study the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure on response inhibition.
Deakin University - FASD: From isolation to inclusion in Australian schools
This research investigated pedagogical approaches required for the successful inclusion of children and young people living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.
NIH - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders - From Research to Policy
Forty years ago, alcohol was not commonly recognized as a teratogen, an agent that can disrupt the development of a fetus. Today, we understand that prenatal alcohol exposure induces a variety of adverse effects on physical, neurological, and behavioral development.
JAMA - Association Between the Birth of an Infant With Major Congenital Anomalies and Subsequent Risk of Mortality in Their Mothers
Do mothers who give birth to an infant with a major congenital anomaly have an increased risk of mortality?
University of Toronto - Discontinuation Patterns of Substances of Abuse in Pregnancy in a Cohort of Women Seeking Addiction and Parenting Support: A Mixed Methods Study
Substance use during pregnancy is a major public health concern, stemming from potential physical and psychosocial harms to both the mother and child.
Handbook of Missing Persons - Pregnancy and Parenting Among Runaway and Homeless Young Women
Homeless youth face numerous challenging life circumstances, both prior to leaving home and while homeless. Examples of such difficult experiences include exceptionally high rates of pregnancy and early parenthood, particularly in comparison to their housed peers.
Alcoholism - A Comparison Among 5 Methods for the Clinical Diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Despite the prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) and the importance of accurate identification of patients, clinical diagnosis may not be consistent across sites due to the heterogeneous nature of FASD and the characteristics of different diagnostic systems used.
Read more
Alcoholism - Letter to the Editor Regarding Coles, Gailey, Mulle, Kable, Lynch, and Jones (2016): A Comparison Among 5 Methods for the Clinical Diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum DisordersIN THIS LETTER to the Editor, I discuss a study conducted by Coles and colleagues (2016) that took on the important task of comparing the outcomes of 5 fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) diagnostic systems when retroactively applied to the records of 1,581 patients.
Alcoholism - Response to Astley's Letter to the EditorRead more

IN OTHER LANGUAGES
Hrvatska radiotelevizija (Croatia) - I povremeno konzumiranje alkohola u trudnoći opasno za fetus
Neke trudnice i dalje vjeruju da je potpuno bezopasno za vrijeme trudnoći povremeno popiti čašu alkoholnog pića, no sve je više dokaza o tome da čak i mala količina može ostaviti posljedice na fetus.
Aachener Nachrichten (Germany) - Benefizkonzert: Mehr als 1300 Euro gesammelt
Eigens aus Lingen an der Ems war die Vorsitzende des Vereins FASD Deutschland, Gisela Michalowski, nach Birgelen gekommen, um den Erlös aus dem Benefizkonzert entgegenzunehmen, das Paul und Uschi Antenbrink zugunsten des Vereins organisiert hatten.
Wochenblatt.de (Germany) - Schwangerschaft und Alkohol: Frauen mit hohem Bildungsstatus sündigen öfter
Ein Gläschen Sekt, ein Bier, Glühwein ... In der Vorweihnachtszeit gehört der Alkohol für viele dazu. Die KKH warnt vor den Folgen von Alkoholgenuss während der Schwangerschaft. Statistiken zufolge neigen gerade Frauen mit höherem Bildungs- und Sozialstatus dazu, zu sündigen.

Friday, December 23, 2016

Alcohol News - 2016 in Review

 JANUARY
The Guardian (UK) - No safe alcohol limit, new guidelines to say
Drinkers will be advised to cut back on alcohol for at least two days a week under new public health guidelines, according to reports.
Medical Xpress - Over 400 conditions co-occur with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), study finds
Researchers at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) have identified 428 distinct disease conditions that co-occur in people with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), in the most comprehensive review of its kind.
The Moscow Times (Russia) - Russia's Alcohol Imports Plunge to Record Lows
Russia saw a record drop in alcohol imports in 2015 as a result of the weakening ruble and a decline in Russians' purchasing power, the Kommersant newspaper reported Thursday.
ABC Online (Australia) - Alcohol industry reliant on problem drinkers, say critics
The message to drink responsibly tags nearly every alcohol commercial. But research published today suggests that's a fairly pointless message. It shows that the majority of drinkers, as the liquor industry likes to point out, already do drink responsibly.
Irish Times (Ireland) - Ministers lobbied 40 times in three months on alcohol issues
Government Ministers and their officials were lobbied on alcohol-related issues more than 40 times in a three-month period, an analysis of the new register of lobbying shows.

FEBRUARY
USA Today (USA) - CDC: Young women should avoid alcohol unless using birth control
Women of childbearing age should avoid alcohol unless they're using contraception, federal health officials said Tuesday, in a move to reduce the number of babies born with fetal alcohol syndrome.
Irish Times (Ireland) - More than 900 get cancer from alcohol each year, HSE warns
More than 900 cancer cases, with 500 deaths, are caused by drinking alcohol each year in Ireland, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has warned.
News1130 (Canada) - Alcohol abuse costing the healthcare system billions: Canadian Public Health Association
The country’s top doctors came out with a warning about rising alcohol levels in Canada this week.

MARCH
DutchNews.nl (Netherlands) - Over 900 Dutch teens hospitalised with alcohol poisoning last year
Last year over 930 Dutch teenagers ended up in hospital because they had drunk too much alcohol, a rise of nearly 20% on 2014. And the number with acute alcohol poisoning was up 27% on the previous year, figures collated by paediatrician Nico van der Lely show.
Examiner.com - Six signs the next 10 yrs. for alcohol biz will be like the last 20 for tobacco
Don't be alarmed: A second-coming of Prohibition isn't on the horizon, and alcohol manufacturers will remain profitable just as Big Tobacco remains solvent. America is driven by freedom to make choices, even when they're unanimously unhealthy, and alcohol won't stop being the drug of choice for the stressed or the celebrating.
Medical News Today - Alcohol triggers breast cancer-causing gene
Each year, tens of thousands of cases of breast cancer in the US and Europe are linked to alcohol consumption, and it is also linked to an increased risk of cancer recurrence in women with early-stage breast cancer. Now, a new study provides a direct link between alcohol, estrogen and a cancer-causing gene.
WHO (EU) - New WHO study reveals that while smoking by school-aged children has declined significantly, young people’s health and well-being is being undermined by gender and social inequalities
A new pan-European WHO survey of schoolchildren reveals that the proportion of 15-year-olds who first smoked at the age of 13 has fallen significantly since 2010.

APRIL
The Guardian (India) - Indian state Bihar imposes total ban on alcohol sales
The Indian state of Bihar has completely banned the sale of alcohol, including at bars and hotels.
Tech Times (UK) - 90 Percent Of People In England Do Not Link Alcohol Drinking To Cancer
Nine out of ten people in England do not link alcohol drinking to any cancer, despite the fact that increased risk of seven major cancers are linked to drinking alcohol, report says.
Deutsche Welle (Germany) - Report: German teens turning away from drugs, alcohol
A comprehensive health study in Germany has found that drug and alcohol abuse by young people is at an all-time low. Officials warn, however, that binge drinking remains a rampant problem.
The Local.it (Italy) - Millions of boozy Italians at risk of alcohol problems
Some eight million Italians are consuming too much alcohol, according to a report released on Thursday by Italy's National Health Institute (ISS).
Medscape - Alcohol and Processed Meat Link to Stomach Cancer
An analysis from the World Cancer Research Fund has found "strong evidence" that alcohol and processed meats can cause stomach cancer. Stomach cancer is the 16th most common cancer in the UK with around 7,100 cases in 2013. It is more common in men than women.

MAY
MarketWatch - The world is drinking less alcohol — except Americans
People worldwide are drinking less alcohol — for the first time in 15 years. The U.S., however, was one notable exception.
Science World Report - Paternal Alcohol Use, Lifestyle Cause Birth Defects
Birth defects were found to have a direct link to a father's age, environmental factors and alcohol use. According to researchers at the Georgetown University Medical Center, the defects were caused by the epigenetic changes that can likely affect later generations.
Baltic Times (Lithuania) - Lithuania's Central Electoral Commission handed over 60,000 signatures supporting restrictions on alcohol sales
A group of activists on Monday handed more than 61,000 signatures in support of a legislative initiative aimed at cutting alcohol consumption in Lithuania over to the Central Electoral Commission.
Times of India (India) - Alcohol kills an Indian every 96 minutes
As the debate over an alcohol bans grows across India, 15 people die every day - or one every 96 minutes - from the effects of drinking alcohol, reveals an IndiaSpend analysis of 2013 National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, the latest available.

JUNE
Medical News Today - Breast cancer risk rises even with light alcohol use
A new analysis concludes that all levels of alcohol use - even light drinking - are associated with raised risk for breast cancer, with higher consumption linked to higher risk. The researchers also summarize the biological mechanism behind the link and the impact on global breast cancer incidence and deaths due to drinking.
The Straits Times (Malaysia) - Malaysia to raise minimum age for alcohol consumption to 21, from the current 18
Malaysia said on Wednesday (June 1) that it would raise its minimum age for alcohol consumption to 21 next year from the current 18 to stem underage drinking and alcohol abuse.
EurActiv.com‎ (EU) - Health NGOs: Commission ‘listened’ to industry on alcohol advertising
A new European Commission proposal to reform advertising rules on television and online has opened a new battlefield for health NGOs, advertisers and the alcohol industry.
Reuters (EU) - Heineken F1 deal triggers new call for alcohol ban
Dutch brewer Heineken's sponsorship deal with Formula One, announced last week, has led to renewed calls from European campaigners for a ban on alcohol sponsorship in the sport.
The Local (France) - Booze-loving France 'complicit' in alcohol deaths
France's love for fine wines and liqueurs means the government is closing its eyes to prevent 49,000 alcohol deaths a year, a new damning report will say.

JULY
The Moscow Times (Russia) - Kremlin Eyes State Alcohol Monopoly with $88M Deal
Russia's state-owned alcohol producer Rosspirtprom has acquired eight new distilleries in a deal worth 5.7 billion rubles ($88 million), the Vedomosti newspaper reported Wednesday.
Review Show (Hungary) - Alcohol consumption in Hungary twice the global average
Globally, individuals above 15 years of age drink on average 6.2 litres of pure alcohol per year, which translates into 13.5 grams of pure alcohol per day. Hungarians aged 15 years or older consume just over twice the global average. The trend is similar among Eastern European countries, including Ukraine, Belarus and Russian Federation.
Tech Insider - Here are 9 serious health risks of even moderate drinking
Many people seem to assume that alcohol is a fairly healthy, safe habit as long as it's done in moderation. People even point to studies that suggest small benefits to drinking red wine. Here's what we actually know about the health risks of alcohol to a typical, not-addicted drinker.
Vox - The hidden calories in your booze, explained in 3 charts
Three pints of India pale ale can deliver you half a day’s worth of calories. And a typical glass of California cabernet sauvignon today may have more alcohol and more calories than it would have a decade ago.

AUGUST
Medscape - Updated Guidelines for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Updated clinical guidelines for diagnosing fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, field-tested in evaluations of 10,000 children in the United States, South Africa, and Europe, provide more detail on learning and behavioral deficits and include a new flowchart and a photographic guide for lip and philtrum morphology.
Holyrood (Scotland) - Zika virus is not the birth defect risk Scotland should be most worried about
Alcohol, not the Zika virus, is the Olympian challenge for Scotland when it comes to the brain development of babies, according to prevention author Dr Jonathan Sher.
Wall Street Journal - With Moderate Drinking Under Fire, Alcohol Companies Go on Offensive
Public-health officials who long said light drinking was good for the heart are now warning of cancer risks, causing ripples through the alcohol industry.
iTechPost - 5 Benefits of Alcohol Refuted by World Health Agencies
Health officials around the world are standing by each other in questioning the validity of the so-called benefits when you drink aclohol. In the last decade, the aclohol industry claims they have invested time and effort to research the benefits of drinking alcohol only to be refuted by Health and Human Services from the U.S. and the U.K. Today.

SEPTEMBER
Medical Daily - Underage Drinking Influenced By Exposure To Brand-Specific Alcohol Ads, Study Finds
A study found that children who are more exposed to brand-specific alcohol commercials on television tend to consume more of those brands. The research also adds evidence to the link between alcohol commercials and underage drinking.
ESPAD - New ESPAD results: teenage drinking and smoking down, but concerns posed by new drugs and new addictive behaviours
Smoking and drinking among 15–16-year-old school students are showing signs of decline, but there are concerns over challenges posed by new drugs and new addictive behaviours.
EurActiv (Ireland/EU) - Ireland’s alcohol bill pleases EU health chief, irritates industry
The Irish government won praise from the EU’s Health Commissioner over a new bill, which imposes a stricter framework on alcohol consumption in Ireland, including a minimum unit price, labelling and marketing restrictions.
BBC News (Wales) - Alcohol drinkers in Wales 'cause harm to 60% of people'
More than half of adults in Wales have been harmed by other people's drinking, a survey has suggested.

OCTOBER
DutchNews.nl (Netherlands) - The bill for alcohol use adds up to €2.5bn, says ministry
Alcohol costs the Netherlands a net €2.5 billion a year, according to a report published by the health ministry.
The Guardian - Most countries get more calories from alcohol than soft drinks – study
People in the UK and many other countries get more of their calories from alcohol than from sugary drinks like cola and lemonade, according to new data which suggests that tackling Britain’s drink problem may be more important for health than cracking down on sugar consumption.
Scotsman (Scotland) - SNP wins alcohol minimum price court battle
The Scottish Government has won its legal battle to introduce alcohol minimum pricing in Scotland after the Court of Session today kicked out an objection by the drinks industry.
CNN - Women now drink nearly as much alcohol as men, study finds
The report, published in the medical journal BMJ Open, analyzed 4 million people born between 1891 and 2001 and found that, historically, men were more likely to drink alcohol, and in amounts that would damage their health.
The Times (UK) - Alcohol bill faces ‘ferocious industry lobbying’
The alcohol industry has been accused of “ferocious lobbying” against a government bill to introduce minimum unit pricing and restrict advertising.

NOVEMBER
CTV News - New data reveals alcohol's cancer toll
Alcohol consumption caused more than 700,000 new cancer cases and around 366,000 cancer deaths in 2012, mainly in rich countries, according to data reported Wednesday to the World Cancer Congress in Paris.
Time - Alcohol Will Be Banned in Public Spaces During the 2022 Qatar World Cup
Qatari officials have banned alcohol in streets and other public places during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in the country’s capital, Doha, organizers said Tuesday. Officials in the Gulf state are also seeking alcohol bans in World Cup stadiums during the tournament.
UPI - Drinking alcohol may increase risk for prostate cancer
Drinking may raise the risk of prostate cancer, and the more men drink the greater their risk, a new analysis of 27 studies suggests.
AAFP News (USA) - Surgeon General Issues Landmark Report on Alcohol, Drugs
One in seven people in the United States will develop a substance use disorder at some point in their lifetime -- yet only 10 percent of them will receive treatment.
Wall Street Journal (UK) - Report Warns of Alcohol-Related Cancer Deaths in England
England could suffer 135,000 cancer deaths caused by alcohol consumption over the next two decades should current drinking trends continue, according to a new report published Friday.
BBC News (Scotland) - Bid to appeal against minimum alcohol pricing to Supreme Court
The Scotch Whisky Association has applied to appeal in the UK Supreme Court against minimum pricing for alcohol in Scotland.

DECEMBER
Medical Daily - Alcohol And Heart Health: Moderate, Habitual Drinking Can Cause Irregular Heartbeat, Study Finds
Many past studies have confirmed binge drinking can result in an irregular heartbeat or a heart "flutter," but a new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has linked moderate, habitual drinking with the same result.
The Independent (UK) - Minimum alcohol pricing 'could improve nation's health', says Public Health England report
A new report has asserted the health benefits of introducing minimum pricing for alcohol as the Government continues to review the measure.
CNN - White wine raises melanoma risk, study says
Alcohol has been linked to several different cancers, some more strongly than others. Now a study adds a new type of cancer to the list, and it's an unexpected one: Brown University researchers say that drinking, even in moderate amounts, is associated with higher rates of melanoma -- the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Scoop (New Zealand) - Alcohol is no ordinary commodity – It’s official!
The Canterbury Medical Officer of Health, Dr Alistair Humphrey, has triumphed in a landmark case in the Court of Appeal, which means supermarkets can only display alcohol in separate designated areas, away from checkouts and entrances.

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

Alcohol News - 51/2016

RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty (Russia) - Putin Demands Curbs On Surrogate Alcohol After 62 Die In Siberia
Russian President Vladimir Putin has demanded restrictions on the sale of surrogate alcohol after at least 62 people died in the Siberian city of Irkutsk from drinking bath lotion.
The Age (Australia) - Drownings: Safety authorities urge paddlers to steer clear of alcohol after review of paddler deaths
Kayakers and other paddlers have been urged to keep off their craft if they've been drinking alcohol, after a review of paddling deaths in Victoria since 2000 found almost one in three of the dead had been drinking.
Wall Street Journal - ‘Risky Drinking’ Explores the Hidden Dangers of Casual Alcohol Use
“Are you a risky drinker?” asks a new HBO documentary by award-winning filmmakers Perri Peltz and Ellen Goosenberg Kent. Airing Dec. 19, “Risky Drinking” tells the story of four drinkers from different demographics with problems of varying levels of severity, from the twenty-something weekend binger who dresses as “Tinderella” for Halloween, to the sufferer of end stage alcohol abuse.
Medical Xpress - Study investigates genetic, environmental factors in alcohol use disorder and divorce
Alcohol use disorder and divorce are strongly correlated, meaning that experiencing one makes it more likely to experience the other in one's lifetime, according to a new study led by researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Tampabay.com - Once alcohol-free, Disney's Magic Kingdom to expand beer, wine sales
It was big news in 2012 when Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom broke a 41-year tradition to sell beer and wine in one restaurant. Now the most-visited theme park on the planet is expanding alcohol sales into four more sit-down restaurants starting next week.
Waikato Times (New Zealand) - One in four hospital ED admissions related to alcohol
A warning from a top emergency doctor as Kiwis approach the silly season, with new stats showing one in four admissions are due to booze.
Scoop (New Zealand) - Alcohol is no ordinary commodity – It’s official!
The Canterbury Medical Officer of Health, Dr Alistair Humphrey, has triumphed in a landmark case in the Court of Appeal, which means supermarkets can only display alcohol in separate designated areas, away from checkouts and entrances.
AdAge.com - Facebook Tests Letting People Block Alcohol or Parenting Ads to Avoid Stirring Painful Memories
Facebook wants to help some people avoid ads that might upset them, and is updating ad controls to do that.
GoodTherapy.org (USA) - Alcohol Abuse Increasing Among Older Adults
Alcohol abuse among adults age 50 and older is increasing, according to a report published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence.
The Sun (UK) - Over 6,400 British troops treated for alcohol abuse in the last four years and 170 developed mental health problems
New government figures show that since 2012 the equivalent of 10 infantry battalions of soldiers have required medical treatment for drinking too much booze.
The Conversation AU (Australia) - Alcohol and drug use exacerbate family violence and can be dealt with
Domestic violence is a widely discussed issue in Australia. However, many narratives fail to acknowledge the impact of alcohol and illicit substances on the prevalence and severity of domestic violence. They also fail to adequately describe the complexity of violence that occurs within families.
BBC News (UK) - Send heavy drinkers for liver scan, GPs told
Women who regularly drink more than three-and-a-half bottles of wine a week should get their livers checked, says new draft advice for England.
Daily Mail (Australia) - 'Scary' research that shows increasing numbers of Australian children are trying drugs and alcohol at just TWELVE
Children are trying drugs and alcohol at a younger age, with many having their first experience at just 12. In 2003, children were waiting until they were 16 to start experimenting with drugs.
Globalnews.ca - Poor body image in teen girls leads to more alcohol consumption: study
A new study out of Tufts University has found that teen girls with body image issues are more likely to drink alcohol.
Stuff.co.nz (New Zealand) - Liquor laws failing to protect those vulnerable to alcohol-related harm
Liquor laws promising to increase community control of alcohol use are failing under the weight of the alcohol industry, a new report shows.
Morning Advertiser (UK) - NHS Health Survey: 31% of men drink above recommended guidelines
More men than women drink above the recommended alcohol guidelines on a weekly basis, latest NHS health statistics have revealed.

Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Alcohol News - 50/2016

BU Today - SPH Study: Alcohol Policies Contribute to Suicide Prevention
Excessive drinking has long been known to play a role in suicides. A recent review led by a School of Public Health researcher shows that certain government policies, such as those limiting liquor store density and imposing taxes on alcohol, have a protective effect in reducing suicides.
EurekAlert - Weight and body image misperception associated with alcohol use among teen girls
Among high school girls ages 14-18, those who report and act on body image misperceptions are more likely to have had at least one drink in their life, and more likely to have engaged in episodes of heavy drinking than girls of the same age without body image misperceptions, a new study has found.
Telegraph.co.uk (UK) - 'Clean cut' generation is least likely to have ever had an alcoholic drink
Findings from the annual Health Survey of England suggest that today’s youngsters are the most “clean cut” generation on record, and the least likely to have touched alcohol or tried a cigarette before they turned sixteen.
New York Post (USA) - Metro-North suspends sale of alcohol at platforms
The commuter line has suspended the sale of beer and alcohol on Grand Central Terminal platforms after irregularities were found during an audit of bar carts and counters.
Hindustan Times (India) - Prepare plan in 6 months to curb drug, alcohol abuse in children: SC to Centre
The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Centre to put in place within six months a national action plan to curb the rising drug and alcohol abuse cases among school children, observing they are encouraged to become “drug peddlers once they get addicted”.
The Local Germany (Germany) - Munich bans alcohol at night at main train station due to crime
The Bavarian capital's city hall on Tuesday approved a plan to forbid drinking at its main train station due to rising crime rates.
Science Daily (USA) - Baby boomers on a bender: Emerging trends in alcohol binge and use disorders among older adults
Trends of self-reported past-month binge alcohol use and alcohol use disorder were examined among adults age 50 and older. The researchers found significant increases in past-year alcohol use, past-month alcohol use, past-month binge drinking, and alcohol use disorders.
CNN - White wine raises melanoma risk, study says
Alcohol has been linked to several different cancers, some more strongly than others. Now a study adds a new type of cancer to the list, and it's an unexpected one: Brown University researchers say that drinking, even in moderate amounts, is associated with higher rates of melanoma -- the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Daily Mail (USA) - Animation lays bare how American deaths from drugs, alcohol and mental disorders have TRIPLED since 1980
Deaths from alcohol, drugs and mental disorders have almost tripled in the United States since 1980, a new federal study reveals.
read more
Expatica Spain (Spain) - 25,000 drivers a day to be tested for alcohol or drugs in Spain as Christmas approache
SOME 25,000 drivers in Spain are to be tested for drugs and alcohol every day this week. The checks are part of a campaign by the Direccion General de Trafico (DGT) which aims to raise awareness of drug-driving.
Irish Times (Ireland) - Alcohol and other drugs kill two people a day in Ireland
Two people a day died from causes related to alcohol and other drug use in 2014, according to latest figures from the Health Research Board.
Prague Daily Monitor (Czhech Republic) - Právo: Young Czechs frequently injured under influence of alcohol
The number of young Czechs between 15 and 19 who were injured under the influence of alcohol almost tripled, from 1,489 to 4,297, and of those under the influence of drugs rose almost 12 times from 88 to 1,013 between 2009 and 2016, daily Pravo writes Friday.
The Age (Australia) - Life really blows for growing number of drivers on alcohol interlock program
Imagine having to take a breath test every time you start your car, and then having a machine randomly and unpredictably prompt you while driving to pull over and take another breath test?
The Northern Echo (UK) - Alcohol misuse placing impossible burden on region's hospitals
ALCOHOL misuse is placing an impossible burden on the region’s hospitals, according to a new report released today.
THUMP - New Study Finds 13% of Festival Deaths Worldwide Caused by Alcohol and Drugs
A new Canadian study released this week found that alcohol and drugs were a factor in 13% of all reported music festival deaths between 1999 and 2014, and the majority of all non-traumatic deaths.
ITV News (UK) - Alcohol: the financial and human cost to the region
Alcohol misuse is placing an 'unsustainable burden' on the region’s emergency departments and urgent care services, according to a new report by Balance, the North East Alcohol Office.
IceNews (Iceland) - Alcohol prices in Iceland still climbing
In Iceland there is a state monopoly of all alcoholic beverages and in the New Year a further price raise has been announced. With that raise the prices of alcohol will have risen over 100% since Iceland’s 2008 financial crash according to a report by Vidskiptabladid.
betterRetailing (UK) - Public Health England calls for plain packaging on alcohol
Public Health England has called on the Government to impose tobacco-style regulations on alcohol and hike the costs with minimum unit pricing (MUP).
Express.co.uk - Cathay, Qantas and Singapore Airlines could STOP serving free alcohol on flights
HIGHER fuel prices predicted by experts could mean some of Asia’s airlines will no longer be able to afford serving alcohol for free on flights.
MediaPost Communications - 40% Of Alcohol Beverage Buyers Make Their Decisions In-Store
Fully 40% of U.S. consumers who buy alcoholic beverages haven’t decided what they’re going to purchase when they walk into the store, according to a new study from IRI.
Latinos Health - Heavy alcohol consumption can cause psoriasis – study
Psoriasis and some other skin problems are linked to alcohol intake mainly because of the damage alcohol cause to several body organs. There is solid evidence that alcohol can increase the risk of developing psoriasis or make the condition significantly worse.

Sunday, December 11, 2016

FASD News - 49/2016

Iowa Public Radio (USA) - Proposal: Expand Child Abuse Reporting to Include Mother's Alcohol Use
Women who use legal drugs such as alcohol during pregnancy could be reported for possible child abuse under proposed legislation state lawmakers may be considering in January.
Macleans.ca (Canada) - How one woman overcame fetal alcohol syndrome and found art
That was the challenge that Jennifer Tourangeau put to her fellow graduates at Grande Prairie Regional College’s two-year visual arts and design program in Alberta this spring.
Medical Daily - 4 Easily Preventable Diseases To Eradicate In The New Year
One of the things that makes fetal alcohol syndrome more difficult to eradicate is that women struggling with alcohol addiction may be less likely to know they are pregnant, as risky behaviors related to alcohol and sex can go hand in hand.
CBC.ca (Canada) - Gov't won't support Liberal MP's proposed FASD Criminal Code amendments
Yukon MP Larry Bagnell says he's more "sad than frustrated" that his private member's bill looks set to die when it's voted on in the House of Commons next week.
Our Sacred Breath - 12 Wishes for My Daughter and FASD
This year my daughter and I celebrate our 11th Christmas together. We try to keep to a 3-gift limit: something you need, something you want, and something just for fun.
Alcohol Addiction Helpline (USA) - Alcohol and pregnancy: How it affects an unborn child
Alcohol is one of the most dangerous addictive substances that can affect a developing fetus. According to the Institute of Medical Report to Congress, alcohol produces the most serious neurobehavioral effects in the fetus, as compared to other substances of abuse, such as marijuana, heroin or cocaine.

VIDEOS and MATERIALS
Childbirth Classes Online - Alcohol during pregnancy Drinking Alcohol During Pregnancy: Is It Safe? What Are the Effects?
If you're pregnant and wondering if it's OK to indulge in the occasional small glass of merlot or to sip a little champagne on New Year’s Eve, the advice you receive may be confusing.
Omaha.com - Raising children with fetal alcohol syndrome
Nora Boesem of Newell, South Dakota, talks about the challenges of raising nine children with fetal alcohol syndrome. The children were adopted by Boesem and her husband, Randy.
Telethon Kids Institute - Making FASD history in the Fitzroy Valley
Dr James Fitzpatrick and his travelling health team travel to Muludja in WA's Fitzroy Valley to screen for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.
Telethon Kids Institute - Pilbara FASD Project promo
A new project aimed at reducing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in the Pilbara has been launched in South Hedland. The project called ‘Warajanga Marnti Warrarnja - Together we walk on country’ is a partnership between the Telethon Kids Institute and BHP Billiton in collaboration with Wirraka Maya Health Services and the Hedland FASD Network.
Telethon Kids Institute - No alcohol in pregnancy is the safest choice
If you're trying for a baby, pregnant or breastfeeding, no alcohol is the safest choice.

RESEARCH
Birth Defects Res A Clin Mol Teratol - Acute alcohol exposure during mouse gastrulation alters lipid metabolism in placental and heart development: Folate prevention.
Embryonic acute exposure to ethanol (EtOH), lithium, and homocysteine (HCy) induces cardiac defects at the time of exposure; folic acid (FA) supplementation protects normal cardiogenesis (Han et al., , ; Serrano et al., ). Our hypothesis is that EtOH exposure and FA protection relate to lipid and FA metabolism during mouse cardiogenesis and placentation.
Psychiatry, Psychology and Law - Sentencing Offenders with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD): The Challenge of Effective Management
The criminal justice system in Australia is increasingly being required to deal with offenders exhibiting the symptomatology of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Disproportionately they are indigenous.
The Canadian Journal of Program Evaluation - Evaluating System Change Initiatives: Advancing the Need for Adapting Evaluation Practices
This article describes key challenges experienced and addressed during the evaluation of the Government of Alberta’s 10-Year Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Strategic Plan (2007–2017).
UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE - Microglial activation in the developing rodent brain following single-day moderate binge-alcohol exposure
Alcohol has been shown to activate microglia, the immune cells of the brain, which may contribute to lasting deficits in cognitive functioning seen in humans with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) and in rodent models of FASD.
The Lancet - Prenatal alcohol exposure and pregnancy and childhood outcomes: a systematic review of alternative analytical approaches
Investigation of the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure in observational studies using standard analytical approaches such as multivariable regression can produce results that are biased by residual confounding or measurement error due to self-reported alcohol consumption.
Journal of Pediatric Neuropsychology - Neuropsychological Aspects of Prevention and Intervention for FASD in the USA
The USA has relatively well-developed programs focused on the prevention of and intervention for prenatal alcohol exposure when compared with most other countries. This includes federal and state government programs involving extensive efforts by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Alcoholism - The Use of Cardiac Orienting Responses as an Early and Scalable Biomarker of Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Impairment
Considered the leading cause of developmental disabilities worldwide, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are a global health problem. To take advantage of neural plasticity, early identification of affected infants is critical.
Alcohol and Alcoholism - Placental Morphology in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
Gestational alcohol exposure is significantly associated with UPM, which could account for the higher rates of preterm delivery and reduced mean birth weights.
Women's Health Issues - A Comparison of Profiles of Transtheoretical Model Constructs of Change among Depressed and Nondepressed Women at Risk for an Alcohol-Exposed Pregnancy
The efficacy of a series of interventions to reduce risk of alcohol-exposed pregnancies is well-established, yet some subsets of women remain at risk.
Vitamins and Hormones - Neurotrophins in the Brain: Interaction With Alcohol Exposure During Development
Decades of research examining both individuals with FASDs and animal models of developmental alcohol exposure have revealed the devastating effects of alcohol on brain structure, function, behavior, and cognition.
Alcohol Clin Exp Res - Exposure to chronic mild stress differentially alters CRH and AVP mRNA expression in the stress-responsive neurocircuitry of male and female rats prenatally exposed to alcohol
CMS differentially altered central HPA peptide expression in PAE and PF animals compared to their control counterparts, with a possible shift toward greater CRH mediation of HPA regulation in PAE males, and greater AVP mediation of HPA regulation in PF males.

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Alcohol News - 49/2016

Daily Mail - Health experts say alcohol-fuelled events should be replaced with other activities
The office Christmas party should be banned and replaced by a trip to the panto, according to health experts.
Medical Daily - Alcohol And Heart Health: Moderate, Habitual Drinking Can Cause Irregular Heartbeat, Study Finds
Many past studies have confirmed binge drinking can result in an irregular heartbeat or a heart "flutter," but a new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has linked moderate, habitual drinking with the same result.
Irish Mirror (Ireland) - Staggering 900 cases of alcohol-related cancer diagnosed in Ireland every year and 500 of these are fatal
The National Cancer Control Programme warned that over half of these alcohol related cancers could be prevented if people stuck to low-risk guidelines of 11 standards drinks for women and 17 for men
Star Weekly (Australia) - Men ignore alcohol harm message
More than half of Moorabool men, and a third of Melton men, are at risk of short-term alcohol harm each month, figures reveal.
The Independent (UK) - Minimum alcohol pricing 'could improve nation's health', says Public Health England report
A new report has asserted the health benefits of introducing minimum pricing for alcohol as the Government continues to review the measure.
Daily Mail (UK) - No 10 refuses to rule out introducing minimum prices for alcohol as the Government's health advisers say drinkers should pay for their own mess
A spokesman for the Prime Minister said the Government will look into proposals by its own health advisers, who recommend bringing in minimum pricing to cut the harm caused by drinking.
Bury Times (UK) - Bury Council to urge ministers to bring in 9pm watershed for alcohol adverts
The ruling Labour group brought forward a motion at last week's council meeting calling on the council to lobby the government to introduce a 9pm watershed for the advertising of alcohol on TV.
Huffington Post UK (UK) - The Shocking Impact Of Alcohol On The Emergency Services
The UK’s relationship with alcohol is not without consequence. Excessive drinking places an enormous burden on our emergency services - including the police, fire, ambulance and accident and emergency - with the wider financial impact of responding to alcohol-related emergencies alongside the very human effect on the people who work in these critical areas.
CBS News - "Teetotaler gene" discovery could lead to alcohol abuse treatments
Scientists say they’ve identified a gene variant that dampens the desire to drink alcohol. They said their discovery might lead to the development of drugs that could control alcohol consumption, possibly even among problem drinkers.
AzerNews (Uzbekistan) - Uzbekistan to raise prices on alcohol
The minimum wholesale and retail prices on alcoholic beverages (except beer) in Uzbekistan will be raised starting from January 1, 2017, according to a joint decision of the country’s Ministry of Finance and the State Tax Committee.
The Costa Rica Star (Costa Rica) - 30% of Costa Rican children begin consuming alcohol before the age of 13
43% of Mexican and 30% of Costa Rican children begin consuming alcohol before the age of 13, according to the first results of the study about the patterns of consumption of alcoholic beverages in Latin American minors.
EurekAlert - Neuroscientist studies connection between PTSD and alcohol abuse
Many who have been to war, experienced abuse or lived through a traumatic event struggle to cope with life-altering anxiety and depression afterward. Approximately eight million people in the United States live with post-traumatic stress disorder, according to the National Center for PTSD, and nearly 75 percent of them report abusing alcohol at one time or another.
The Times (UK) - TDs must ignore alcohol lobby, says RSA head
Politicians who oppose a law to “hide” alcohol from public view in retail outlets are not acting in the public interest, the chairwoman of the Road Safety Authority has suggested.

Friday, December 2, 2016

#AVMSD: Once in a lifetime opportunity to protect child health

Europe faces a childhood obesity epidemic; up to a third of 11-year olds is overweight or obese. Youth binge drinking is widespread and causes major harm, while nearly half the European youth tried alcohol before the age of 13. Health problems starting in childhood often last a lifetime.

The current revision of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD)is the opportunity to ensure children are not exposed to the marketing of products that are damaging for their health.

A coalition of health organisations have called on the European Parliaments to minimise the exposure of young people up to the age of 18 to the promotion of these products; for a ban of alcohol and high in fat, sugar and salt similar to that imposed on tobacco; and, the possibility for countries to limit promotion by broadcasts from other countries.
Source: EU reporter

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Alcohol News - 48/2016

Medical News Today - Alcohol: Link between liver and brain may control consumption
A hormone link between the brain and the liver may control people's alcohol consumption - depending on which version they carry of a particular gene. This could be a target for treatments that reduce the desire for alcohol in problem drinkers.
BMC Blogs Network - Worrying gaps in people’s awareness of alcohol and cancer
Published today in BMC Public Health a new study highlights worrying gaps in the UK public's awareness of cancer risks associated with alcohol. Cancer Research UK have previously presented the data from the study as a report.
Medical Xpress (Australia) - Students risking health with alcohol and energy drink mix
Young people are fuelling big nights out by drinking alcohol mixed with energy drinks to help them party through the night, according to a new Victorian government report.
The Korea Herald (South Korea) - Convenience stores become biggest seller of alcohol drinks
Convenience stores have become the largest market for selling alcohol drinks, a market report showed Wednesday, apparently due to more people choosing to drink alone or with their families.
Eleven Myanmar (Myanmar) - MPs want alcohol distilleries monitored
A proposal to oversee the sewage treatment system of alcohol distilleries was recorded by the Lower House on Tuesday. MP Aung Kyaw Kyaw Oo of Hlaing Constituency submitted the proposal which was debated by 11 Mps.
TRBusiness (Russia) - Russia’s Federal Agency calls for inflight alcohol restrictions
Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency (FATA) held a top level round table on the growing problem of dealing with unruly passengers last week, with FATA head Alexander Neradko calling for new rules, the creation of ‘black lists’ of problem passengers and stiffer other penalties for offenders.
Healio - Telephone intervention effective for alcohol use disorder in military members
Motivational interviewing with feedback delivered over the telephone reduced drinking and alcohol dependence and increased substance use treatment rates among active-duty military with untreated alcohol use disorders.
AllAfrica.com (Uganda) - Govt Bans Sale of Alcohol in Sachets
Government has given alcohol manufacturers up to September 2017 to stop production of alcohol in sachets or face the consequences of the law, Daily Monitor has learnt.
Otago Daily Times (New Zealand) - DCC makes case for alcohol restrictions
The Dunedin City Council argued its case for alcohol restrictions after a supermarket planner claimed its policy was a ''knee-jerk'' response not based on evidence.
Knowridge Science Report - A small amount of alcohol could mean trouble for women
Drinking too much can make you feel bad the next morning, but for some women, drinking more than a moderate amount could also be very dangerous.
Irish Independent (Ireland) - Heaviest drinkers to be hit hardest by alcohol price plan
Almost 15pc of adults who drink to excess and favour the cheapest booze could be affected by the Government's plan to introduce minimum pricing, according to a new study.
Medical Xpress - Initial hospital contact for alcohol issues predicts cirrhosis
An initial hospital contact for alcohol problems is a significant predictor of alcoholic liver cirrhosis, particularly for patients 40 to 59 years and those diagnosed with harmful use or dependence, according to a study published online Nov. 16 in Hepatology.
Flanders News (Belgium) - "10 alcoholic drinks per week is enough!"
A new guideline for alcohol consumption has been released by the Association for Alcohol and Drugs Problems (VAD).