Vol. 23 No. 4 September 2008

Contents (Click on an item/ page no. to be taken directly to your choice of article) News from around the world 2 • Home Office leaflet encourages responsible Articles: consumption for 18-24 year olds • UK study finds some radio presenters encourage ’s radical alcohol policy agenda provokes 16 national debate in UK 3 • Guidance for GP alcohol ‘Direct Enhanced Commentary on by Service’ in UK Harvey E. Finkel, MD 6 • BIIAB hails Tesco’s training initiatives 17 More about white and their contents by • ‘Safe. Social. Sensible’ conference Gordon J. Troup 7 • Diageo launch DVD on dealing with underage Medical News drinkers • UK of parenting age drink to unwind • Discussions concerning alcohol as an • Ireland: Garda sieze alcoholic drinks following independent protective lifestyle factor 8 the introduction of new powers 18 • Frequent alcohol consumption may increase • EC Share access to public health videos endometrial cancer risk in older women 9 • French campaign to highlight the risks of alcohol • Binge drinkers forget negative events during consumption during pregnancy • Legal drinking age for and likely to be • Adherence to mediterranean diet reduces risk of raised in 19 major chronic diseases 10 • Eurocare launch new website • Benefits to the heart of moderate alcohol consumption vary depending on lifestyle 11 • French wine industry lobbies for more freedom • US consumption trends 20 Social and Policy News • Unit-check website for students to be extended • Whisky marketing passes responsibility audit 5 in UK • WSWA promotes responsible tailgating 21 • New school year in US and talking to teens about • UK Transport Police appeal to football fans to underage drinking drink responsibly • UK Alcohol industry Alliance to champion • 12% of deaths among American Indians and healthy consumption 11 Alaska Natives are alcohol-related • BBPA respond to BMA assertion that the • Launch of caffeine alcoholic energy drink ‘sensible majority are willing to pay more for bad postponed 22 minority’ and report on difficulties faced by the • US middle-schoolers and alcohol: Tips for 13 on trade parents from the science inside alcohol project at • British Liver Trust - new leaflet on ‘Alcohol and AAAS Liver Disease’ • College presidents seek debate on drinking age 23 • UK Government identifies types of ‘problem • UMass claims success with social-norms drinker’ ahead of new alcohol campaign 14 campaign • Investigation launched into underage drinking • booklet raises awareness of alcohol habits issues in older people 24 • The Drinkers Alliance launch new website in UK 15 • Australian define intoxication guidelines • Alcohol supplement in UK daily newspaper • – Melbourne night club lockout

www.aim-digest.com www.drinkingandyou.com NEWS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Scotland Ireland AIM Digest PO Box 2282 MSPs considered a petition on the A group of psychiatrists has called BATH, BA1 2QY, UK 23rd September signed by 10,000 for a complete ban on all alcohol T: +44 (0)1225 471444 people saying Scotland’s proposal advertising and sponsorship in F: +44 (0)1225 427444 to raise the off trade purchase age Ireland. E: [email protected] in Scotland discriminates against Psychiatrist Dr Bobby Smyth of Web sites: www.aim-digest.com young people. www.drinkingandyou.com the Irish College of Psychiatrists, The Coalition Against Raising the Annual Subscription to AIM: speaking at the publication of a GBP £ 600- Drinking Age in Scotland (Cardas) policy paper commented: USD $1,200- thinks criminalising 18 to 21-year- “A recent report by the Office of 900- olds would not change attitudes to Tobacco Control revealed that our Corporate Subscription Levels: drinking. 16-17-year-olds spend €20.09 per Silver GBP 1,500- Labour, the Liberal Democrats and week on alcohol. This amounts to USD $3,000- the Conservatives have all come an illegal alcohol market of €145 Euro 2,300- out against raising the off-licence million in this country and as a Gold GBP £3,000- purchase age and the student USD $5,000- society we seem to be accepting this Euro 4,500- representative on the SNP’s national as ‘normal’,” he said. Platinum level available on request. executive, Caroline Henderson, is However, the Drinks Industry against it. However, the Scottish Please contact Sherry.Webster@aim- Group of Ireland said yesterday digest.com for information about AIM’s Government believes raising the there was a sharp decline in alcohol sponsorship levels. age has worked well in Scandinavia consumption during the first half of Please make cheques/drafts in British and in the three places in Scotland this year. An analysis of excise receipts pounds sterling, dollars or payable where it has been tried, Armadale, from the Revenue Commissioners to AIM Digest at the above address Stenhousemuir and Coupar. The reveals sales of alcohol were down government’s under-21s sales ban Peter Duff – Chairman, 14% last month, compared with T: +44 (0)1225 471444 is part of a number of measures August 2007 and fell by 7% during E: [email protected] to cut alcohol-fuelled crime and the first eight months of the year. health problems, including setting a Helena Conibear – Executive Director, The group’s chairman Michael T: +44 (0)1300 341601 minimum price for alcoholic drinks Patten predicted the decline would E: [email protected] in an attempt to stop cut-price continue. Alison Rees - Deputy Editor alcohol deals. The move has been E: [email protected] backed by members of Scotland’s Sherry Webster – Finance and medical profession. Administration Director T: +44 (0)1225 471444 UK E: [email protected] People could be given the power allowed licensing boards to consider to object to alcohol licensing the impact on public health of any The publisher takes reasonable care to ensure the accuracy of quotations and other applications on public health new off licences, pubs or clubs. information contained herein, but is not grounds under a radical plan from a Licensing in and responsible for any errors or omissions. commission charged with improving Opinions and recommendations quoted do not allow for specific herein are usually excerpted, digested or health in Liverpool. public health considerations. condensed, may be edited for continuity, The ‘Health is Wealth’ commission But the commission believes the and are only part of the opinions and recommendations expressed in the original proposes the introduction of government’s commitment to tackle sources, which should be consulted for community licensing forums as part alcohol-related crime and disorder details. of a 12-point plan to improve public means there is scope to act. © AIM Digest 2001. All rights reserved. health in the North West. The commission was established Material may be reproduced with attribution to AIM. Such forums have already been by the University of Liverpool as Published by: AIM Digest, established in Scotland since a contribution to the city’s year as PO Box 2282, BATH, BA1 2QY. changes to the there in 2005 European Capital of Culture.

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Scotland’s radical alcohol policy agenda provokes national debate in UK

The Scottish government’s programme for 2008/09 Diageo stated that the Scottish government offered ‘no Consultation on the Scottish governments discussion evidence’ to support its view that minimum pricing will paper ‘Changing Scotland’s relationship with alcohol: reduce alcohol related harm. Higher prices may affect a discussion paper on our strategic approach’ closed consumption, but not necessarily among the groups the on 9th September. Subject to the consultation results, Government wishes to target, they argue. measures such as prohibiting off trade sales to under 21s; Benet Slay, managing director of Diageo Great minimum pricing; introducing social responsibility fees; Britain, states “We are disillusioned with the Scottish and alcohol-only checkouts, may be delivered through Government’s paper and frustrated that Government planned criminal justice and licensing legislation. The is trying to place responsibility for tackling alcohol proposals on alcohol are part of a Health Bill; one of 15 misuse on the shoulders of the drinks industry and thus bills that the Scottish government plans to introduce. failing to recognise that everyone has the responsibility England’s ‘Safe. Sensible. Social’ Alcohol Policy - individuals, Government, civil society and industry... consultation is open until the 14th October, offering We believe the most effective approach to promoting less radical yet serious implications for all sectors of the the highest standards of responsible behaviour across industry. industry and for every consumer, is through a fair, The proposal to ban alcohol off-sales to under-21s has transparent and effective system of co-regulation.” been condemned as unfair or unworkable by many Diageo’s consultation response outlines a new system associations and companies including the Federation of co-regulation for alcohol promotions. It suggests of Small Businesses (FSB), Diageo, the Wine and Spirit the Government sets overall objectives and mandatory Trade Association as well as consumer affairs groups and standards across a range of alcohol issues whilst the adults of the 18-21 age group. Many have highlighted industry should be free to develop a “sensible and easy- the consequences of such a measure whereby 18 –21 to-work system of regulation and practice to meet year old Scots would buy alcohol over the internet or Government’s objectives.” over the border in England. Issues such as the potential Evelyn Gillan, project director of Scottish Health Action criminalisation of adults who may marry, vote, fight for on Alcohol Problems, an independent lobby group their country, own a house, yet potentially not be able to established by the Royal Medical colleges, says Scotland buy alcohol, have been extensively discussed. is pioneering in its acknowledgement that alcohol is a Consultation responses problem for the whole of society. “What the government FSB Scotland spokesman Colin Borland said the has done, crucially, is call for an overall reduction of organisation’s members had spent a lot of time and the consumption of alcohol. It is saying that we can no money complying with the latest licensing laws — longer afford to see this as an individual problem. We all getting architects’ plans for their shops, sending staff on need to drink less. That’s a fairly critical shift.” courses and paying for other professional services. “The Jack Law, chief executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland blunt instrument of blanket regulation, no matter how (AFS), states that Scotland is breaking new ground well-intentioned, gives rise to unintended consequences in its licensing law, which includes a public health and lumps everyone – the exemplary trader and the utter principle. “Decisions in licensing will have to be made rogue – together,” he said. “The priority for any new in relationship to public health, not just in business policy has to be tackling the damage done by the abuse and commercial interests.” The charity supports the of alcohol and requires some sharp, targeted action at establishment of a minimum price and alcohol only the root causes and biggest perpetrators”. check outs and a social responsibility fee. “This document The WSTA called on the Scottish Government to enforce is trying to reinforce the view that the enforcement of current laws around alcohol and end its ‘nonsensical licensing regulation starts at the point of sale with the policy’ of raising the purchasing age, arguing that “It licensee, not the police,” commented Law. AFS believes is by getting police out on the streets enforcing the law 18 to be the correct legal purchase age for Scotland. that we will make our communities safer”.

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CARDAS Public responses to the call for the off trade purchase The Coalition Against Raising the Drinking Age in age to rise to 21 Scotland (CARDAS) a group of local and national • In an ongoing poll on the BBC website, of the 26,896 and student representative organisations has people who had responded as of 21st August 2008 to coordinated one of the most complex responses. a poll question asking ‘Should the legal drinking age Membership includes NUS Scotland, the Scottish be raised to 21?’, a majority of 53.10% answered ‘no’ Youth Parliament, NUSSL, and Northern Services, 44.27% who answered ‘yes’. along with a broad range of local student representative • In an ongoing e-petition on the Scottish Parliament organisations from across Scotland. website, as of the 27th August 2008, over 2100 people CARDAS provides an impressive evidence base as had signed the e-petition calling on the Scottish to why ‘the proposal to raise the minimum purchase Parliament to urge the Scottish Government to age for off-sales alcohol purchases from 18 to 21, ‘drop its proposal to raise the age for off-sales alcohol which we believe is at best ineffective, and at worst purchases from 18 to 21’. counterproductive – and a clear infringement on the • In a similar ongoing e-petition on the Scottish rights of responsible adults’ would not work. Parliament website, as of the 25th August 2008 627 people had signed the e-petition calling on the CARDAS is supportive of many of the consultation Scottish Parliament to urge the Scottish Government papers’ proposals such as the prevention of the sale to ‘reconsider its plans to raise the age for off-sales of alcohol as a loss leader, an end promotions offering alcohol purchases from 18 to 21’. free alcohol or quantity discount for bulk buying, the introduction of smaller standard measures of • As of 21st August 2008, a protest group on the wine at 125ml and spirits at 25ml and the students social networking website ‘Facebook’ called ‘Don’t representatives call for mandatory and clear unit raise the drinking age’ - referring specifically to the information to be presented on drinks menus. Scottish Government proposal to raise the minimum CARDAS also calls on the Scottish Government and purchase age - had 2,984 members. Local Authorities to deliver and develop alternative • As of 21st August 2008, a similar protest group on activities for young people to prevent alcohol misuse, the social networking website ‘Facebook’ called ‘If as activities focusing on alcohol are not surprising they raise the drinking age to 21 in Scotland....I’m when there is little else available in the community leaving’ - had 1,050 members. for under age youth to do at present in Scotland. The • In an ongoing poll on the Alcohol Focus Scotland organisation also supports a ban on televised alcohol website, of the 652 people who had responded as of advertising before the 9pm watershed and in cinemas 21st August 2008 to a poll question asking ‘Should for films with a certificate below age 18. the purchase age of alcohol be raised to 21?’ a majority To access the report, visit http://www.cardas.org.uk/ of 58% answered no, 42% answered ‘yes’. downloads/CARDAS_consultation_response.pdf A survey conducted by Ace Fieldwork on behalf of supermarket giant Asda, included more than 10,000 customers interviewed at more than 30 stores across Scotland. The survey results were issued on the final day of a consultation by the Scottish Government. Two-thirds disagreed with proposals to ban promotions, such as three-for-two offers and 61% rejected the idea of the introduction of minimum pricing levels. Almost three-quarters objected to the installation of separate checkouts for alcohol, forcing them to queue twice during their weekly shop and 60% said that neither

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Whisky marketing passes setting minimum prices, nor banning promotions would responsibility audit be effective in lowering consumption of alcohol. An in-depth audit of industry marketing practice The supermarket’s survey shows a third of shoppers has concluded that Scotch Whisky companies are agree with minimum pricing, mooted at 35p per unit, meeting the highest standards of responsible brand with which SNP ministers would increase the cost of marketing and promotion. Research by The Scotch cheap lager and . Only 17.5% thought it would Whisky Association (SWA) found that distillers had be effective. 30% backed a ban on drinks promotions, successfully implemented tough industry rules into while 20% said there should be separate checkouts for everyday marketing practices. The SWA Code of alcohol. Practice on Responsible Marketing and Promotion was launched in 2005. It is mandatory in the UK and sets Paul Kelly, corporate affairs director for ASDA, pointed best practice for SWA members worldwide. out tough new changes forbidding supermarkets from displaying alcohol anywhere other than specially Jack Law, Chairman of the Code’s Independent designated aisles are already due to come into force Complaints Panel and Chief Executive of Alcohol next year. “We believe that we should let one set of Focus Scotland, reviewed the SWA’s audit process reforms take place before making further changes… and findings. He said: “The SWA’s Code has taken on While everyone accepts that some people drink too board the frequent criticism of self regulatory codes much and the pressures this puts on public services - that they are soft on enforcement - by introducing and the public purse, penalising the vast majority of mechanisms to fine, name and shame, and ultimately shoppers - in these tough economic times - is hugely expel a member continually breaching the Code. This unpopular.” is a welcome dimension and one that Alcohol Focus Scotland would like to see introduced into the codes of Kelly also stated that Asda was making efforts to tackle similar bodies”. the issue of alcohol in Scotland. He announced that Following the audit, which involved face to face from September 30 Asda would no longer sell beer or interviews and a review of marketing material, SWA cider lines with “free extra” product in them - such as members have agreed to revise the Code to introduce cans of beer with 13.5% free. new sponsorship guidelines and to extend its mandatory scope EU-wide. New school year in US and talking to teens about underage drinking Anheuser-Busch is reminding parents to talk with their Recent research shows that parents can have a significant teens about resisting negative peer pressure when it influence on their children’s decisions on this subject. comes to underage drinking by distributing leaflets and According to the 2007 GfK Roper Youth Report other material via community groups. Anheuser-Busch released in September, 71% of children ages 8 to 17 are running two programmes: Family Talk, which helps cite their parents as the No. 1 influence on whether prevent underage drinking by providing tips to parents they drink alcohol - a statistic that has held constant on how to openly and honestly communicate with their since the survey began more than a decade ago. teens and ‘College Talk’, which helps parents talk to their college-bound student about underage drinking while at college. Family Talk was developed by authorities in child psychology, education, family counseling and alcohol treatment to encourage open and honest communication about alcohol issues. College Talk was developed by an advisory panel of authorities in the fields of education, family therapy, student health and wellness, alcohol treatment and social norms marketing and through conversations with parents and students The materials can be accessed atwww.familytalkonline. com and www.collegetalkonline.com.

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Commentary on alcohol and cancer by Harvey E. Finkel, MD So much of the information enough evidence for conviction. more women. The cardiovascular reported about the relationships benefits of moderate drink, The Australian survey finds that therefore, are not to be dismissed. of cancer to alcohol consumption moderate drinking, an average of two is conflicted and confusing, that drinks per day, does not increase the The other puzzling, even murky, the comprehensive 200-page meta- overall risk of cancer. Four per day, alcohol-cancer association concerns review from the Australian Cancer however, and especially eight drinks another group of very common Institute in New South Wales is per day raise the risk substantially. cancers, those of the large intestine most welcome. We must keep in Although coronary risk may fall, (colon) and rectum. The Australian mind that cancer is not one disease, medical risks in addition to cancer, survey finds a peculiar dichotomy: but many, and that its risk factors perhaps most notably for no alcohol-related risk among are very complex and variable. of the liver, rise steeply at sustained women, but a very substantial It is clear that the risks of some higher levels of consumption. increase in men with higher intakes. cancers are raised by excessive There have been many studies that Aerodigestive cancers (mouth, would cast doubt on these results. drinking, and we all know that throat, larynx, esophagus) become heavy drinking increases disability, I must conclude about colorectal more frequent as alcohol intake rises cancer what applies to most cancers destruction, and death from many above moderate levels, the liability causes. What has been hard to in their possible relationship to multiplied by smoking. Even drinking: more study is necessary. fathom is the precise relationship moderately heavy drinking may lead between some causes and moderate to cancer arising in the liver, almost No other direct associations were drinking. And are there even always with some degree of cirrhosis found by the Australians. A long cancers whose risk is diminished by as a way station. Indeed, any sort list of cancers are not related to moderate drinking? of chronic liver disease, alcohol- any level of drinking, but evidence We are pointed toward some of the related or not, may eventuate in appeared suggesting that alcohol answers by the Australian report, liver cancer (hepatoma). consumption might be associated with reduced risk of thyroid cancer which was summarised in the Whether breast-cancer risk rises July issued of AIM Digest. I will and of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. with moderate drinking has been A number of studies over recent append comments based on my the single most difficult question own experience as a hematologist- years have found that moderate of the alcohol-cancer controversy. drinking reduces the risks of oncologist and my readings of the The Australian survey, like many relevant medical literature. cancers of various organs, including but by no means all of the scores kidney and prostate. One of the Alcohol has been cited as a of reports in the literature, notes most intriguing demonstrated that carcinogen by the International a gradual rise in risk with rise in resveratrol triggers a death pathway Agency for Research on Cancer. consumption. It does acknowledge among the cells of human leukemia From a practical view, I would the protective effect of the vitamin and breast cancer, yet is harmless to agree when the alcohol intake is folic acid. I should recognize the normal cells. chronically excessive. A strong recently reported data from southern point made by the Australian France suggesting a threshold of This survey does not address report is that as many as 35 percent consumption of about 1.5 drinks differential effects of different of cancers are preventable by the per day, below which women beverages, which is demonstrated avoidance of risky behaviour. experience a 40 percent decrease in by some studies. Irrespective of this Avoidance of tobacco is number one risk compared to nondrinkers, and nothing here would tend to belie on this list. Excessive sun exposure above which, at moderate levels, the wisdom of avoiding excess in all is on the list, as is chronic heavy risk does not increase significantly. cases. drinking. Dietary factors, obesity, A balanced perspective would keep (For references, please see column 1 and physical indolence have been in mind that, fearsome as breast page 7) indicted, but I don’t think there’s cancer is, heart disease kills vastly

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More about white wines and their contents by Gordon J. Troup, School of Physics, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Victoria, Australia. In the early days of the research Research was started on the other and shikimic acid are themselves on the salutary effects of moderate molecules, mainly monophenols, antioxidants and contained in white wine drinking, Jack Masquelier, for their salutary effects. wines. Of course, the content will the discoverer and researcher of An account of some of the very depend on the white wine and the the effects of the small numbered interesting findings are given below. treatment it has received. In [4], the polymers of the polyphenols in These were obtained mainly from white wine used was Soave DOC (red) wines could say: “Drink red the two papers [3, 4] summarised Classico 2004 (Le Rive), which was wine for your health and white wine in the July edition of AIM-Digest: found to have a higher content of for your enjoyment” [1], because [4] was ‘in press online’ at the time, tyrosol and shikimic acid than other all the salutary effects of wine and so not available immediately white wines. were supposed to come from these then. More work needs to be done in compounds, which white wines Two monophenols, tyrosol and the area of characterising which were denied in the making, unless hydroxytyrosol, develop in wine white wines, if combined with a they were left on the seeds and skins during the fermentation process, good (Mediterranean) diet, cause for a while. Clinical studies showed and are not found in the grape: the LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio that red wine certainly reduced the they are good antioxidants. Because to increase rather than decrease. ratio of the ‘bad ‘ cholesterol (LDL) they are small, they can take Research continues on resveratrol to the ‘good’ (HDL) in the blood part in chemical reactions that with very promising results for it to stream, but there were also studies, the polyphenols cannot, such as be an anti-aging agent. e.g. [2], that showed that certain helping in a healing pathway for white wines (low in total phenolics) heart tissue after a heart attack, and had the opposite effect, while others strengthening the tissue in the first were not as efficient as the red ones. place. Another molecule, shikimic Tyrosol acid, which has a hexagonal (but not References for ‘Commentary on alcohol phenolic) ring with 3 hydroxyls on and cancer’ by Harvey Finkel MD it, is also a good antioxidant. It can be a forerunner for polyphenols Cancer Institute of NSW - ‘Alcohol as Hydroxytyrosol a cause of cancer’ - www.cancerinstitute. and tannins. org.au/cancer_inst/publications/pdfs/ Masquelier [1] tended to put most pm-2008-03_alcohol-as-a-cause-of- of the blame for tissue damage cancer.pdf and cell damage on the superoxide Bessaoud F, Daurès JP. Patterns of radical ( O2- ), which is needed alcohol (especially wine) consumption and breast cancer risk: a case-control for certain chemical reactions in study among a population in southern our bodies, but can run amok. It Shikimic acid France. Ann Epidemiol 2008; 18:467- is now known that this radical is 475. in fact less toxic to cells than the References Schoonen WM, Salinas CA, Kiemeney hydroxyl radical .OH, a reactive [1] B.Schwitters and J.Masquelier, ‘O P LALM, et al. Alcohol consumption and oxygen species radical (ROS). In C in Practice’, 2nd edition, 1995, Alfa risk of prostate cancer in middle-aged Omega Editrice, Roma, , p.80. men. Int J. Cancer 2005; 113:133- fact it is stated in [3] that “Virtually 140. all the biomolecules including [2] E.P.Mansvelt, D.P.van Velden et al., Ann.N.Y. Acad. Sci.2002, 957, 329. Clément M-V, Hirpara JL, Chawdhury simple carbohydrates, lipids, S-H, et al. Chemoprotective agent proteins and DNAs are potential [3] M.Falchi, A .Bertelli…and Dipak resveratrol, a natural product derived M. Das, J.Agric.Food Chem. 2006, 54, targets for hydroxyl radical attack”. 6613. from grapes, triggers CD95 signaling- Fortunately, simple sugars and acids dependent apoptosis in human tumor [4] M.Thirunavukkarasu,…A.Bertelli,.. cells. Blood 1998; 92:996-1002. such as malic acid, tartaric acid and N.Malik,J.Agric. Food Chem. 2008, 56, 6733.

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Discussions concerning alcohol as an independent protective lifestyle factor

Many studies have linked moderate for heart attack, while non-drinkers away from recommending alcohol drinking to a lower risk of heart had the highest risk. to their patients. Instead, they disease. What’s been less clear have emphasised other lifestyle is whether people who exercise, Several other recent studies have modifications, including diet and abstain from smoking, maintain added to the evidence suggesting exercise. an optimal weight and adhere to that moderate alcohol intake “Clinicians are very resistant to an appropriate diet would see any complements a healthy lifestyle. taking alcohol out of the ‘’ additional benefit from drinking. A recent British study identified box and asking what its effects A study by Harvard University moderate alcohol consumption might be at more typical levels of researchers sought to discover if in among four healthy behaviours intake,” Mukamal said. “Even if healthy, physically fit, nonsmoking (including not smoking, exercising clinicians don’t believe there are men, drinking one or two units and eating five servings of fruits benefits to alcohol, and I think of alcohol a day provided any and vegetables a day) that added 14 that’s a reasonable concern since we additional protection against years to life, compared with men don’t have randomised trails, they heart attack. The study found that and women who did not adopt these should at least be discussing it, but participants consuming one-half behaviours, and Danish researchers I don’t think that’s happening.” to two drinks a day had the lowest reported that both physical activity Ellison agrees: For middle-aged and heart attack risk 40-60% lower and moderate drinking have a older men and postmenopausal than healthy men who didn’t drink, protective effect on the heart and an women who don’t have ethical, irrespective or beverage choice. additional benefit when combined as part of a healthy lifestyle. religious or health reasons for “These results tend to refute avoiding alcohol, “physicians the oft-quoted hypothesis that However, none of the studies were should at least inform them that the lower coronary heart disease seen “randomised controlled trials” -- the scientific data currently available among moderate drinkers is due gold standard of scientific research, strongly suggest that a small to their associated healthy lifestyle whereby people are randomly amount of alcohol on a regular habits, and not to their alcohol assigned to an intervention, such as basis may lower their risk of heart consumption,” wrote Dr. R. Curtis exercising or consuming alcohol. disease, stroke, diabetes, dementia, Ellison, director of the Institute There is lots of observational data and even total mortality,” he said. on Lifestyle and Health at Boston to support moderate drinking, said Sources: Kenneth J. Mukamal, M.D., University School of Medicine, Dr. Robert A. Vogel, professor of M.P.H.; R. Curtis Ellison, M.D.; Robert A. Vogel, M.D.; Oct. 23, 2006, Archives and co-author of a critique of the medicine and director of clinical of Internal Medicine; Oct, 23, 2006, news study. vascular biology at the University release, Beth Deaconess Medical of Maryland School of Medicine. Center, Boston; Oct. 22, 2007, news release, Using data from more than 50,000 Archives of Internal Medicine; Jan. 7, 2008, health professionals, study author “However, we do not consider news release, PLoS Medicine; American Heart Association Dr. Kenneth J. Mukamal, assistant alcohol a validly tested drug professor of medicine at Harvard because to do that you would have Medical School, and his colleagues to randomise people for years with identified more than 8,800 men alcohol or not - and that’s not a who were nonsmokers, ate a healthy study that can be done,” he said. diet, exercised at least 30 minutes a Vogel said he enjoys a daily glass of day and weren’t overweight. Over a wine as part of a healthy lifestyle 16-year period, 106 of the men had and tells patients who do the same heart attacks, but those who had that it’s “a reasonable thing to do.” two drinks a day had the lowest risk Many doctors, though, tend to shy

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Frequent alcohol consumption may increase endometrial cancer risk in older women Postmenopausal women consuming According to the National Cancer help alter risk of the disease,” says 28g or more of alcohol a day Institute, endometrial cancer is the Henderson, the paper’s senior (this is above sensible drinking most common cancer of the female author. “However, these findings guidelines) may double their risk of reproductive system. It accounts for are preliminary and must be endometrial cancer, suggests a study approximately 6% of all cancers in investigated further before any led by researchers at the University women. recommendations about alcohol of Southern California (USC). Researchers drew upon data from consumption can be made.” This is the first prospective study the Multiethnic Cohort Study The study also found that the to report a significant association (MEC), an epidemiological study association of alcohol intake between alcohol and endometrial of more than 215,000 people from and endometrial cancer is cancer according to says Veronica Los Angeles and Hawaii. The study stronger among lean women Wendy Setiawan, assistant followed 41,574 postmenopausal than among overweight or professor of preventive medicine African-American, Japanese- obese postmenopausal women, at the Keck School of Medicine of American, Latina, Native-Hawaiian suggesting that lean women may be USC. “Previous studies have shown and White women in Los Angeles more sensitive to modest elevations that alcohol consumption has and Hawaii for an average of 8 in hormone levels resulting from been associated with higher levels years. Data on alcohol intake and alcohol drinking than obese women of estrogens in postmenopausal endometrial cancer risk factors who already have high levels of women, which could be the were obtained from a baseline estrogen and therefore mask alcohol mechanism by which daily alcohol questionnaire. as an independent risk factor. intake increases one’s risk of “This discovery is important as it The study will appear in the endometrial cancer.” suggests that changes to certain International Journal of Cancer, lifestyle choices may potentially and is now available online. Binge drinkers forget negative events during binge drinking Studies into the memories of positive – and impairs memories seen after alcohol consumption people engaged in heavy drinking for emotional events experienced were recalled less, the researchers have shown that it is the inability after intoxication – often negative found. to remember the worst excesses of a – biasing memory to positive effects Further studies found alcohol also night out - while remembering the of alcohol, and support [for] further increases the risk of making wrong happy things that led up to them - is drinking.” judgments and impulsive decisions, one of the main causes of repeated Memory tests on volunteers who especially in women. This is another binge drinking. were shown emotion-laden images reason why drinking can increase the Professor Theodora Duka’s of before, during and after a bout risk of further bingeing by affecting Sussex University research found of drinking found there was a the brain’s control process, Professor that memory material acquired in clear degradation in memory as Duka said. “Social heavy drinkers an intoxicated state is less effectively the alcohol began to build up in who binge drink show inability to retrieved in a sober state. Thus their bodies. Alcohol facilitated withhold an inappropriate response people who abuse alcohol forget memory for material seen after its when sober. They also are worse in the consequences of intoxication administration. More importantly, planning than their counterparts”. during periods of abstinence. under the influence of alcohol, Professor Duka presented her “Alcohol facilitates memories for emotional images seen before findings at The British Association’s emotional events experienced alcohol consumption were recalled Science Festival at Liverpool before intoxication – mostly more whereas emotional images University in September.

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Adherence to mediterranean diet reduces risk of major chronic diseases

A new meta-analysis has shown that diseases in the general population. traditional Mediterranean strictly following the Mediterranean The practical implication is that we dietary pattern. Specifically, diet reduces the risk of dying from are able to talk to our patients and people whose consumption of cancer and cardiovascular disease show them that sticking to this diet, components considered to be part as well as the risk of developing improves their overall health and of a Mediterranean diet (vegetables, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. quality of life,” lead investigator Dr fruits, legumes, cereals, fish, and a The investigators say that greater Francesco Sofi commented. moderate intake of red wine during adherence can be a relatively simple Individuals who stuck strictly to a meals) was above the median tool to reduce the risk of premature Mediterranean diet had significant consumption of the population death in the general population. improvements in their overall were assigned a value of one, This meta-analysis shows, in an health, including a 9% reduction in whereas a value of zero was given overall analysis comprising more all-cause mortality, a 9% reduction to those with consumptions below than 1.5 million healthy subjects in mortality from cardiovascular the median. By contrast, people and 40 000 fatal and non-fatal disease, and 6% reduction in cancer whose consumption of components events, that greater adherence to a mortality. Although only three trials presumed not to form part of Mediterranean diet is significantly examined the association between a Mediterranean diet (red and associated with a reduced risk of adhering to the diet and the risk of processed meats, dairy products) overall mortality, cardiovascular Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, was above the median consumption mortality, cancer incidence and there was a reduced risk of these of the population had a value of mortality, and incidence of diseases when individuals closely zero assigned, and the others had a Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s followed the Mediterranean diet. value of one. disease. Definition of adherence to “The results overall showed “To the best of our knowledge, Mediterranean diet that increasing two points on this is the first report that has the adherence score results in a systematically assessed, through Adherence to a Mediterranean significant protective effect in meta-analysis, the possible diet was defined through scores terms of chronic diseases,” said Sofi. association between adherence to that estimated the conformity “The study supports the guidelines a Mediterranean diet, mortality, of the dietary pattern of the and recommendations of all the and the occurrence of chronic studied population with the current scientific organisations that encourage the Mediterranean diet. It does say more, however, in terms of adherence, meaning it is important to actually stick with the diet.”

Aim Digest PAGE 10 MEDICAL NEWS

Adherence to mediterranean diet reduces risk of major chronic diseases UK Alcohol industry (continued) Alliance to champion In terms of applying the findings healthy consumption to the real world, Sofi said creating The alcohol industry is in talks an adherence score based on “a to form an alliance that will aim theoretically defined Mediterranean to champion healthy attitudes to diet” could be used as preventive drinking. The ‘Project 10’ campaign tool for reducing the risk of will mirror the food industry’s mortality and morbidity in the recent launch of Change4Life, an general population. However, he initiative launched in conjunction added, it is important to define the with the Department of Health diet properly. to encourage healthy diets and The full report is available at www. exercise. bmj.com/cgi/content/full/337/ Producers, retailers and the on- sep11_2/a1344 trade will fund the alliance and Source: Sofi F, Cesari F, Abbate R, et al. its work in a bid to convince Adherence to Mediterranean diet and health status: meta-analysis. BMJ 2008; 337:a1344. the Government that it can use DOI: 10.1136/bmj.a1344. marketing to positively change drinking ‘culture and behaviour’. Led by the Portman Group, the Benefits to the heart of moderate alcohol initiative is looking at creating a consumption vary depending on lifestyle logo or symbol and a strapline that can be used by manufacturers and Research by Michael Marmot from now be modified to reflect how retailers to help drive a attitudinal the Department of Epidemiology people may be differently affected. change in the UK’s binge drinking and Public Health at University “Most people drink for reasons culture. College, London, found that other than alcohol’s health benefits, A spokesman for the Portman smokers with the worst diets but the widely publicised [heart Group says: “There is a growing and poorest exercise habits could protection] benefits may be willingness within the industry consume as many as 14 standard used to justify or increase their to use its marketing to promote drinks a week and still lower their habit,” he wrote in the Journal Of responsible drinking. A number risk of having a heart attack, stroke Epidemiology And Community of companies have developed their or other form of cardiovascular Health. “The most [protective] own campaigns and are using their disease. Greater quantities were less effects from moderate drinking marketing to promote responsibility beneficial, though still better for were found among those with the messages and a number are also those people than being teetotal. worst behaviour profile.” funding the Drinkaware Trust. But fit non-smokers who ate well The findings come from the long- Despite this, the alcohol industry is increased their chances of falling running Whitehall study of British continuing to explore how it could prey to heart disease by drinking public servants, which has followed further strengthen its work in this moderately compared with not at the health fortunes of 10,000 area.” all, though their absolute risk was Londoners since the 1980s. still much lower than that of their Source: ‘Who benefits most from the unhealthier peers. cardioprotective properties of alcohol consumption? – health freaks or couch Professor Marmot said health advice potatoes?’ A. Britton, M. Marmot, and M. Shipley J Epidemiol Community Health - which supports moderate drinking 62: 905-908 from middle age onwards - should

Aim Digest PAGE 11 AIM

AIM – Alcohol in Moderation was founded in 1991 as an independent organisation whose role is to communicate ‘The Sensible Drinking Message’ and to act as a conduit for information from the industry, its associations and relevant medical and scientific researchers, legislation, policy and campaigns. AIM Mission Statement • To promote the moderate and responsible consumption of alcohol • To encourage informed and balanced debate on alcohol, health and social issues • To communicate and publicise relevant medical and scientific research in a clear and concise format, contributed to by AIM’s Council of 20 Professors and Specialists • To publish information via www.alcoholinmoderation .com on moderate drinking and health, social and policy issues – comprehensively indexed and fully searchable without charge • To educate consumers on responsible drinking and related health issues via www.drinkingandyou.com and publications, based on national government guidelines • To inform and educate those working in the beverage alcohol industry regarding the responsible production, marketing, sale and promotion of alcohol • To distribute AIM Digest Online without charge to the media, legislators and researchers involved in alcohol issues • To direct enquiries from the media and others towards full and accurate sources of information • To work with organisations, companies and associations to create programmes, materials and policies that promote the responsible consumption of alcohol.

AIM SOCIAL, SCIENTIFIC AND MEDICAL COUNCIL

Peter Duff, Prof. Dwight B Heath, Ellen Mack MD AIM Chairman Anthropologist, Brown University Prof. Jean-Marc Orgogozo, Helena Conibear, Prof. Oliver James, Institut de Cerveau University of Executive Director Head of Medicine Bordeaux University of Newcastle Prof. Alan Crozier Stanton Peele PhD, Prof. of Plant Biochemistry and Christopher Jarnvall, Social Policy Consultant Human Nutrition, University of Publisher of Alcohol Update, Glasgow Dr. Erik Skovenborg, Scandinavian Medical Alcohol Julian Brind, MW Arthur Klatsky MD, Board Senior Consultant, Waitrose Kaiser Permanente Medical Center Creina S. Stockley MSc MBA, Prof. R Curtis Ellison, Alfred de Lorimier MD, The Australian Wine Research Boston University School of Medical Friends of Wine Institute Medicine Dr Geoff Lowe, Dr. Thomas Stuttaford, Harvey Finkel MD, Honorary Senior Fellow in Clinical Medical Correspondent to the Boston University School of Psychology, University of Hull and Times and Author Medicine chartered health psychologist Dr. Elisabeth Whelan, Tedd Goldfinger, FACC, FCCP Dr. Philip Norrie, President American Council on Desert Cardiology of Tuscon GP, Wine/ Medical Historian and Science and Health Heart Centre, University of Arizona Author

Aim Digest PAGE 12 SOCIAL AND POLICY NEWS

BBPA respond to BMA assertion that the ‘sensible British Liver Trust - new majority are willing to pay more for bad minority’ leaflet on ‘Alcohol and and report on difficulties faced by the on trade Liver Disease’ The British Medical Association • 60% of people opposed recent Diageo GB is sponsoring the latest (BMA) is wrong to argue that increases in tax to tackle binge edition of the British Liver Trust’s responsible drinkers are willing to drinking; publication, Alcohol and Liver pay more tax on alcohol to deal with • 76% of people see higher taxes as Disease. The newly revised leaflet the behaviour of an irresponsible a threat to traditional pubs. gives sensible drinking guidelines, minority, according to the British Mr Hayward added: “It is clear explains how to calculate units Beer and Pub Association. therefore that calls for higher taxes do and describes the effects of binge In a letter to the BMA’s Head of not have public support on grounds drinking. It also gives information Science and Ethics, Dr Vivienne either of fairness or effectiveness. In on , tests Nathanson, the BBPA Chief fact, piling more taxes on beer would and treatment along with useful Executive Rob Hayward points to drive more people away from pubs, contacts. new polling that indicates that the which remain the safest setting for The Trust’s chief executive Alison public overwhelmingly believes the social pleasures associated with Rogers, said: “We are really pleased that higher taxes unfairly penalise drinking responsibly.” that a major alcohol producer sensible drinkers and will not The BBPA has also published a is helping the Trust to produce significantly reduce binge drinking. report entitled ‘A wake up call for information materials that play Mr Hayward has asked to meet Dr Westminster’ which highlights the a role in informing people about Nathanson to discuss the issue. issues being faced by the brewing sensible drinking. We want everyone In the letter, Mr Hayward said: sector and on trade in the UK. to be aware of how much alcohol is “People who drink alcohol need to The report finds that Pubs are too much and what can happen to be fully aware of the damage that can closing at an unprecedented rate the liver as a result of alcohol.” be done to their health by excess. On - Two closures per week from this our two organisations agree... The leaflet can be downloaded 2000 to 2005 have now reached from http://www.britishlivertrust. In our view, the British Medical 35 per week, or five per day. At Association is wrong to press the org.uk/home/the-liver/liver- the same time, brewers’ profit diseases/alcohol.aspx Government to deter the minority margins have decreased because by punishing the majority with of falling beer consumption and higher taxes. That is also the view changing consumer tastes, shifting of the large majority of the public, demographics, the smoking ban, which overwhelmingly rejects your aggressive supermarket loss leading case for higher taxation.” and the current economic climate, Mr Hayward pointed to a BBPA- which is putting a huge strain on commissioned opinion poll by household budgets. In addition ComRes which found that: the government has implemented • 61% of people said they would increased regulation and taxation: A not be willing to pay more tax on 9% beer duty increase was imposed alcohol to prevent others from in the 2008 Budget, and through problem drinking, as against 31% a tax ‘escalator,’ the Treasury has who said they would; mapped out a 2% above inflation • 82% of people say that higher taxes increase over the next four years’ unfairly penalise sensible drinkers; states the report. • 86% of people say that higher For more information, please visit taxes will not significantly reduce the BBPA site www.beerandpub. binge drinking; com

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UK Government identifies types of ‘problem drinker’ ahead of new alcohol campaign Research by the Department of The nine types of drinker are: Health has identified the nine types the pub-group. Drinking provides a of heavy drinker it says are most Depressed drinker - Life in a state of sense of safety and security and gives their lives meaning. It also acts a social at risk of liver damage and other crisis eg recently bereaved, divorced or in financial crisis. Alcohol is a comforter network. alcohol-related illnesses. The “types” and a form of self-medication used to Boredom drinker - Typically single include depressed drinkers, macho help them cope. mums or recent divorcees with drinkers and stressed drinkers. De-stress drinker - Pressurised job restricted social life. Drinking is Heavy drinkers are classed as those or stressful home life leads to feelings company, making up for an absence of who regularly exceed at least twice of being out of control and burdened people. Drinking marks the end of the the daily guideline of 35 units a with responsibility. Alcohol is used day, perhaps following the completion of chores. week for women and 50 for men. to relax, unwind and calm down and to gain a sense of control when Macho drinker - Often feeling The research has been released as switching between work and personal under-valued, disempowered and the Government launches a new life. Partners often support or reinforce frustrated in important areas of their alcohol campaign designed to crack behaviour by preparing drinks for life. Have actively cultivated a strong down on heavy drinkers. A trial them. ‘alpha male’ that revolves around their information campaign has been Re-bonding drinker - Relevant to drinking ‘prowess’. Drinking is driven launched in north-west England. those with a very busy social calendar. by a constant need to assert their Alcohol is the ‘shared connector’ that masculinity and status to themselves Over the next few months, around unifies and gets them on the same and others. 900,000 households will receive level. They often forget the time and Hedonistic drinker - Single, divorced leaflets through the post which the amount they are consuming. and/or with grown up children. highlight the link between drinking Conformist drinker - Traditional guys Drinking excessively is a way of visibly and conditions such as cancer and who believe that going to the pub expressing their independence, freedom liver disease. They will also be given every night is ‘what men do’. Justify it and ‘youthfulness’ to themselves. information about where they as ‘me time’. The pub is their second Alcohol used to release inhibitions. can get help for drinks disorders, home and they feel a strong sense of Border dependents - Men who belonging and acceptance within this including a website where they can effectively live in the pub which, for environment. them, is very much a home from home. calculate their consumption levels Community drinker - Drink in fairly A combination of motives, including and access self help guides. large social friendship groups. The boredom, the need to conform, and a The campaign is targeting adults sense of community forged through general sense of malaise. over the age of 35 who fall into the nine drinking categories. Investigation launched into underage drinking The Government says that it hopes habits the campaign will help 4,000 The London Assembly has launched drinking amongst young people. In people in the area to cut down on an investigation into underage addition, a Facebook page has been their alcohol consumption within a drinking habits in the capital. The set up encouraging people to share year. If successful, it will be rolled investigation will focus on 11 - 21 their opinions. out across other regions. year olds, who will be interviewed According to figures by the Health According to official figures, 50,000 at schools and youth groups. The and Public Services Committee, young men and women end up in London Assembly says that at which is conducting the survey, hospital through heavy drinking present there is “no clear picture” of 24% of UK 15 year olds have been each year in England. Alcohol- how big the problem of alcohol in drunk 10 times or more the capital is. related illnesses and accidents cost For more information visit http:// the NHS in England £2.7 billion a Participants can also take part online www.london.gov.uk/assembly/ year. by completing a six-question survey scrutiny/health_ps_alcohol.jsp asking them about their attitudes to

Aim Digest PAGE 14 SOCIAL AND POLICY NEWS

The Drinkers Alliance launch new website in UK Home Office leaflet encourages responsible hence the site discusses the Scottish Government’s consultation on the alcohol consumption future of alcohol regulation (see for 18-24 year olds lead article) – which the British The Home Office have released Government is observing with a new alcohol leaflet targetted at interest. 18-24 year old binge drinkers to The Drinkers Alliance aims to encourage them to drink sensibly encourage people to make their and to highlight the consequences voice heard in the media and in of drunk anti-social behaviour. The Westminster. “All are welcome to introduction states ‘This leaflet will A new website has been launched join the online debate, take part help you make choices about how this month, designed to give in regular polls, upload video much you drink. It tells you how drinkers a voice in the discussions content and invite their friends alcohol can affect you, explains how surrounding alcohol. The Drinkers to join them. It is crucial that you can stay safe when drinking and Alliance, www.drinkersalliance. the voices of average drinkers are what to do if someone is introuble com, offers a potential platform heard in this increasingly frantic after drinking too much. It’s not and discussion opportunity for the debate if it is to have any chance of about stopping drinking, but it’s responsible drinkers who have been being even handed. Until now the about making you aware of what left out of the current debate on people these new restrictions would some of the consequences could alcohol. impact haven’t had the chance to be of regular binge drinking and get involved. The Drinkers Alliance making sure alcohol plays a more While opinion polls show the provides the first opportunity to positive part in your day-to-day public support very targeted action influence Government’s thinking life’. to deal with problem drinking, on alcohol and bring some balance Governments in London and The leaflet can be downloaded to the debate around alcohol” states from the Home office website Edinburgh are proposing measures the WSTA who have pioneered the that target the general population, http://drugs.homeoffice.gov. web initiative. uk/publication-search/alcohol/ bingeleaflet Alcohol supplement in UK daily newspaper The Guardian newspaper published price and availability are the biggest an alcohol supplement in September levers for consumption. covering a range of alcohol issues Much of the supplement focused facing the UK. The supplement was on the issues facing young people; sponsored by Diageo. one report looked at a number of The supplement covers a range of initiatives that have been raising issues with features on education, awareness of alcohol issues amongst young people, health and the young people including theatre history of alcohol consumption and projects and the success of specific legislation. A report by Professor intervention programmes looking Ian Gilmore, president of the Royal at issues such as family problems. College of Physicians and chairman Another report gives details of a of the Alcohol Health Alliance, survey of teenagers opinions on argues that whilst further legislative alcohol and binge drinking. measures will not be popular To view the publication, visit with politicians, the public or the http://www.guardian.co.uk/ industry, they are still necessary as responsibledrinking

Aim Digest PAGE 15 SOCIAL AND POLICY NEWS

UK study reveals some radio presenters encourage drinking culture A UK survey funded by the programmes they listened to, and content and performance styles Department of Health and the that many presenters used it to that reinforce a jovial approach Home Office has found that a create repartee and connect with to alcohol, and undermine health percentage of radio presenters their listeners. promotion messages. Not all encourage a culture of drinking The alcohol references on comments by presenters supported among young people in the UK. commercial stations were found to drinking, however: a fifth were The study by researchers from the be higher in volume and more likely neutral, and 2% discouraged University of the West of England, to encourage drinking than those excessive drinking, with some Bristol is part of the governments on BBC stations, with Kerrang! suggesting reasons to limit drinking, ‘Know Your Limits’ campaign. Radio shown to be particularly such as safety, work and health. Researchers analysed 1,200 hours likely to encourage excessive Listeners were generally found to be of weekend radio output across drinking. Alcohol references were more enthusiastic about drinking a range of BBC and commercial also influenced by music genre; than presenters, but the assumption stations aimed at young people, hip-hop and black music stations that drinking is necessary to have a and identified over 700 extracts such as 1Xtra and Kiss 101 had good time was rarely challenged. where references were made to a low density of comments. On Prof Daykin added: “Alcohol was alcohol. The study focused on radio the BBC stations, almost half of frequently positioned as a marker programmes broadcast between the alcohol-related comments of the weekend, and a hangover as December 2007 and February were either neutral or discouraged a marker of a good night out. The 2008, across a range of musical excessive drinking, whereas this was notion of not drinking alcohol to genres. The stations included BBC true of only 17% of the comments enjoy yourself, particularly at times Radio 1, 1Xtra, Kiss 101, Key 103, on commercial radio. of celebration such as Christmas and Galaxy Birmingham and Kerrang! The research also identified that New Year, seemed unthinkable”. Radio. presenters were not entirely The study was presented at the Professor Norma Daykin, who responsible for the messages about British Sociological Association led the research, said her team alcohol, and that the production annual conference in Brighton on found that drinking was a regular values of some programmes and September 5. topic of discussion on some of the stations can sometimes encourage Guidance for GP alcohol ‘Direct Enhanced Service’ in UK A guidance document has been According to the guidance, Practices will be paid £2.33 for issued to GPs to support the practices are required to screen each newly registered patient aged delivery of clinical directed newly registered patients using a 16 and over who have received enhanced services (DES), alcohol shortened screening tool such as screening. being one of the five key health and FAST. Those identified as positive Earlier this year an alcohol primary service priorities. The DES allows will be given the full AUDIT test care services framework was specific funding for GPs to deliver to determine if they are drinking released by the Screening and Brief Interventions at hazardous or harmful levels, and NHS to support (SBIs) to newly registered patients. then offered the recommended commissioners The DESs began in April 2008 and intervention of 5 minutes brief in setting up SBI are scheduled to run for 2 years advice in line with University of programmes in backed by £50 million funding Newcastle’s primary care guidance primary care. proposed earlier in the year, with ‘How Much is too much?’. an annual £8 million alcohol Dependant drinkers should be allocation. referred to local treatment services.

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BIIAB hails Tesco’s Diageo launch DVD on UK adults of parenting training initiatives dealing with underage age drink to unwind drinkers A survey of 3,000 women for the Tesco has become the first off- website Netmums found that trade retailer to have its in-house Diageo GB is launching a DVD 49% of respondents were drinking training recognised under the BII aimed at educating both on-trade regularly at home (3 or 4 times a awards body’s new Good Practice and off-trade employees on the week) to wind down from a stressful Recognition Scheme. The scheme importance of identifying and day, with 43% of all respondents acknowledges the steps companies refusing underage drinkers. stating that they felt they should be are taking to tackle under-age sales The DVD was launched in August drinking less. through staff training, and Tesco initially for use by Marston’s Pubs has been specifically recognised for and Tesco One Stop retailers with 22% of those polled regularly drink its Think 21 programme. the aim to make it more widely more than 14 units of alcohol available. The DVD takes the form a week. Of these, 81% drink BIIAB director Cathie Smith said: of a 20 minute scripted film, with regularly at home in the evenings “It’s a challenge for any retailer to a worker and a shop worker to wind down from a stressful day, ensure that policies which deal with discussing their encounters with while chatting with their partners under-age alcohol sales are adhered underage drinkers attempting to or watching TV, and a further 14% to at all times… Tesco has invested buy alcohol from their respective say they need it after a stressful a considerable amount of time and outlets. The film offers advice and day. money in establishing a robust techniques on how to deal with what Of those exceeding the 14 units, training programme and takes Diageo says can be an “awkward 86% felt they should drink less its commitment to responsible and sometimes intimidating than they do, 46% said that if the operating very seriously”. experience”. Government or a health professional The DVD is accompanied by told them it was unhealthy they ‘Safe. Social. Sensible’ materials on the current law on the would try to change how much they conference underage purchasing of alcohol, drink, 30% said they’d be interested especially regarding the Licensing but they’d probably continue and Act 2003. 23% felt they would continue to Kate Blakeley, head of social make their own choices. responsibility at Diageo GB, said, The findings were backed by a second The National Alcohol Conference “There is already good work being survey for the Government’s ‘Know ‘Safe. Sensible. Social. – Delivering done by the industry looking to Your Limits’ campaign, which also in Partnership’ will be held on 4th- tackle the issue of alcohol sales found that drinking in response to 5th November at East Midlands to the underage. We felt it was stress was most common amongst Conference Centre, Nottingham. important to produce one tool people of parenting age. 51% of 25 The Conference on 5th November to address the on and off-trade to to 44-year-olds told the YouGov will include contributions from overcome the barriers which many poll that they drank through stress, Vernon Coaker, Dawn Primaralo, of these employees face in their compared with just 30% of those Kevin Brennan, Prof Mark Bellis, working environments”. over 55. Betsy Thom, Sir Al Ainsley Green and Prof Ian Gilmore. For more information visit http:// www.emphasisnetwork.org.uk/ events/alcoholnov2008/agenda. htm

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Ireland: Garda sieze alcoholic drinks following the French campaign to introduction of new powers highlight the risks of alcohol consumption The Intoxicating Act 2008, had been bought legitimately and during pregnancy which came into operation on July no particular form of retail outlet 30th in Ireland, allows Garda to for supplying the alcohol was seize alcohol from under-18s, or identified. “The issue is the on- from adults in possession of alcohol street drinking and the public order in a public place. and anti-social behaviour”, Insp McMelamin said. Inspector Patrick McMenamin from Pearse Street Garda station Not many prosecutions arose from estimated that 2000 cans and bottles these seizures as people escaped a of alcoholic drinks confiscated conviction if they surrendered the in Dublin over three weekends alcohol, but underage drinkers following the introduction of would be referred to a juvenile new Garda powers were worth liaison officer. The new powers about 5,000 Euros. The drinks would help to reduce anti-social The Collège national des were confiscated in more than behaviour. “They do enable us to be gynécologues et obstétriciens 700 seizures in the greater Dublin more effective in dealing with issues français (CNGOF) and Entreprise area. About 25% of the alcohol of anti-social behaviour, underage et Prevention launched a national was taken from under-18s. The drinking and public order”. The information campaign on the risks remainder would have been taken new powers would also help garda in linked to the alcohol consumption from adults. their policing of underage drinking during pregnancy. This campaign often associated with celebrations The alcohol was seized in streets, car aims to facilitate dialogue between following the release of the Junior parks, public amenities, laneways the doctors and their patients Cert results. and other public areas. The drink about alcohol consumption and recommends ‘Zero’ alcohol during pregnancy. The partners are EC Share access to public health videos providing doctors with two leaflets. ‘Can I drink a glass to his health?’ The European Commission website and ‘, if one has a catalogue of video clips and spoke about it?’ The leaflets provide TV commercials produced by doctors with detailed information health executives across of fetal alcohol syndrome and on issues relating to public health give advice on the manner to and alcohol, smoking and drugs. approach the subject during the Most of these videos have been consultation. produced and aired in the context “The consequences of fetal alcohol of public awareness campaigns in syndrome affect too many children”, the countries concerned. comments Professor Jacques All videos are shown in their Lansac, President of the CNGOF, original language version, most of “With Entreprise et Prevention, we the time with English subtitling. wished to mobilize the professionals The webpage provides a facility for and help the women to understand people to share their video clips or this risk and to speak about it more obtain a copies of the clips. easily with their doctor”. Visit http://www.healthclips.eu/ The leaflets can download from theme_en.cfm?theme_id=1 www.alcooletgrossesse.soifdevivre.com.

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Legal drinking age for French wine industry lobbies for more freedom wine and beer likely to The French wine industry has newspaper articles on wines should be raised in France written an open letter to the French be subject to the same health Government to demand it do and safety guidelines as alcohol Teenagers may face a raise in the more to protect wine growers from advertising and display health legal drinking age for beer and moves by the anti-alcohol lobbyists warnings. This followed a ruling wine in France due to a rise in attempts to tighten legislation. by a Paris county court that an binge drinking among French In the letter, the French wine editorial piece in Le Parisien named youth. French health advisors regions describe how “contrary to “The Triumph of Champagne” are questioning their belief that promises made by the president, could be construed as advertising. children should be initiated in the the government is ignoring the legal The newspaper was ordered to pay art of wine-drinking at an early age. injustice to the wine sector.” €5,000 in damages. Currently, 16-year-olds can buy During his presidential campaign, Tarby, who has spent much of this wine and beer (not spirits) in cafés Nicolas Sarkozy said he would year explaining to the different and and all alcoholic “open communication on wine”, wine regions the extent of the threat drinks in supermarkets and other including on the Internet. But facing them, said: “The internet did shops with a license. The Health there has been no progress since his not exist in its current form when Minister Roselyne Bachelot recently election. the Evin Law was drawn up. We are announced her plans to introduce not looking for total liberty but are legislation, likely to be introduced One of the main concerns expressed in the letter was the Government’s asking for the same limited rights on next year, which will make it illegal the web as we have in the press.” to sell alcohol to youth under 18. decision to ban wine advertising on the internet after Paris-based Vin et Societe have launched National Association for the a graphic campaign calling for Eurocare launch new Prevention of Alcoholism and freedom of expression in France for website Addiction (ANPAA) secured a ruling wine and internet sales - the Loi against Heineken in January. The Evin fails to define producers rights Eurocare (The European Alcohol judgement ruled that the internet on the internet, separated from Policy Alliance) has re launched is is not authorised as a publicity ‘advertising’ to describe wines and new look website. Eurocare is an vehicle in France according to the consumers rights to information alliance of some 50 voluntary and Evin Law. regarding domaines and wines - The non-governmental organizations campaign leads with the comment across 20 European countries The industry, mobilised by Christine Tarby, president of lobbying group ‘Danger - speaking about this bottle working on the prevention of could make you a criminal’. alcohol related harm in Europe. Vins et Société, claims that because the internet was not listed as an The letter follows the leak ofa The website carries news on EU advertising medium under the proposed new law to ban wine on strategy and the 1991 Evin Law, which regulates the internet in France, putting it on EU health Forum and other issues tobacco and , the same level as pornography. surrounding alcohol including it is illegal. As it stands currently, advertising, labelling, road safety the law prohibits any incitement and taxes, trade and development to buy or drink wine as well as any To view the site, please visit http:// appearance of wine advertising on www.eurocare.org TV or in cinemas. Members of the French wine trade also expressed concern over journalists’ inability to write freely about wine. At the beginning of this year a French court ruled that

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US consumption trends The annual GALLUP poll into is more common among Americans alcohol in the previous 24 hours US drinking habits, found 62% of higher socioeconomic status. - 39% of those aged 50 and older of Americans say that they drink Over the past four years, an average say they drank in the last 24 hours, alcohol, a figure that has varied little of 42% of college graduates report compared with 35% of those aged in the last 10 years. Survey results having had a drink in the last 24 30 to 49 and just 28% of those are based on telephone interviews hours, compared with 32% of below 30. with 1,016 national adults, aged 18 those who have not graduated from Beer has regained a comfortable and older, conducted July 10-13, college. Similarly, 41% of drinkers margin over wine - when U.S. 2008. with incomes of $75,000 or greater drinkers are asked to name which The study found that average say they have had a drink in the past alcoholic beverage they most consumption in the past week was 24 hours, compared with 36% of often drink. In recent years, wine 3.8 alcoholic drinks. This is the first middle-income respondents (those had narrowed the gap, including time the average has dropped below with household incomes between pulling slightly ahead in 2005 beer 4 drinks since 2001. It had been as $30,000 and $74,999) and just still is not as widely preferred today high as 5.1 in 2003. 23% of those residing in lower- as it was in the early 1990s, when In each of the last four Gallup income households (with incomes close to half of Americans said it consumption polls 36% of of less than $30,000). Men are was their of choice. Americans reported drinking more likely than women to have Preferences for wine have fallen alcohol in the last 24 hours. This had a drink during the previous back from their 2005 high (39%) compares to an average of 30% day, 43% to 28%. to 31%. from 2000-2004. ‘Daily drinking’ Older drinkers are more likely than The shift back to beer from wine younger drinkers to have consumed in recent years has occurred mostly among Americans between the ages of 30 and 49. In combined data from the 2004 and 2005 Consumption surveys, drinkers between 30 and 49 were about as likely to prefer wine as beer. Now, drinkers in this age bracket have shifted back to beer, with an average of 47% in the combined 2007-2008 data saying they most often drink beer. For more information visit http:// www.Gallup.com.

Unit-check website for students to be extended in UK Health researchers at Leeds affects their health, and how their The site is now being funded University have developed a website drinking compares with that of by the and that encourages students to keep their peers. A pilot scheme funded Research Council and is being track of their drinking. The system by the European Research Advisory rolled out to four other universities. seems to help reduce individual Board found people who used the Leeds Primary Care Trust and the drinking levels and now is being site drank approximately one unit Institute of Health Sciences are also rolled out to other universities. less on each occasion they drank, looking at how it could be modified ‘Unitcheck’ encourages young and that lower levels of alcohol and promoted to other groups. people to check how many units consumption persisted over three For more information, please visit they are consuming, how this months. http://www.uniqoll.leeds.ac.uk/ Unitcheck.htm

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WSWA promotes UK Transport Police appeal to football fans to responsible tailgating drink responsibly British Transport Police (BTP) has A forum bringing together key called on football fans using trains rail industry groups, the FA, the and stations to act responsibly Football League and Premier during the coming season after a League, supporters associations 10% increase in football related and BTP has been set up to work The Wine and Spirits Wholesalers incidents last season across England, through issues of concern and of America (WSWA) has launched Wales and Scotland. ensure the forthcoming season is a a new Consumer Outreach success. programme - TURF (Tailgaters A total of 337 incidents were Urging Responsibility and Fun). related to alcohol – up from 305 “We would appeal to fans ahead of The programme runs in partnership the previous year. the new football season not to over with The Charmer Sunbelt Group Alan Pacey, BTP’s assistant chief indulge in alcohol and remind those and football legend Joe Theismann. constable, operations, said that, for coming into London to adhere to the eighth season running, football the ban on consumption of alcohol WSWA President and CEO related arrests increased – from 567 on the Tube, along with any other Craig Wolf commented to 601 – and 122 football banning ‘dry train’ restrictions,” said Mr “Pregame tailgating is a football orders were secured and 25 police Pacey. ritual. However, irresponsible officers were assaulted. behaviour affects everybody and addressing disorderly conduct is a 12% of deaths among American Indians and responsibility of everyone. Through TURF WSWA has an opportunity Alaska Natives are alcohol-related to be part of the solution, which is A US Federal report by the Centres (5.2%) and injuries in falls consistent with our commitment for Disease Control and Prevention, (2.2%). to becoming the leading voice on found 11.7% of deaths among The greatest number of tribal responsible distribution of alcoholic American Indians and Alaska alcohol-related deaths - about a beverages.” Natives between 2001 and 2005 third of the total - occurred in the TURF also hosts a web site with were alcohol-related, compared Northern Plains, where reservations tailgating tips for a successful with 3.3% for the U.S. as a whole. are remote and often destitute, the and safe with input from Dwayne Jarman, a CDC study said. The lowest number of WSWA and The Charmer Sunbelt epidemiologist who works for the deaths were in Alaska. The study Group. “It is extremely important Indian Health Service and is one said more than 68% of the Indians to The Charmer Sunbelt Group of the study’s authors, said it is the whose deaths were attributed to to protect the tailgating tradition first national survey that measures alcohol were men, and 66% were by supporting for American Indian deaths due to people younger than 50 years old. underage drinking and moderate alcohol. The researchers obtained 7% were less than 20 years old. consumption for fans 21 plus,” said their statistics by analysing death The study recommends “culturally The Charmer Sunbelt Group Vice certificates over the four-year appropriate clinical interventions” Chairman and Chief Executive period. to reducing excessive drinking and Officer Charles Merinoff.“With that The two leading causes of alcohol- better integration between tribal in mind, we are proud to support related deaths among Indians were health care centres and tribal courts, TURF, and its messages of safe, fun traffic accidents and alcoholic liver which often deal with alcohol- and responsible tailgating.” disease, each of which cause more related crimes. For more information about TURF, than a quarter of the 1,514 alcohol- For more information, please visit www.turfzone.org and at www. related deaths over the four-year visit http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/ wswa.org. period. Also listed are homicide preview/mmwrhtml/mm5734a3. (6.6% of alcohol-related deaths), htm

Aim Digest PAGE 21 SOCIAL AND POLICY NEWS

Launch of caffeine US middle-schoolers and alcohol: Tips for parents alcoholic energy drink from the science inside alcohol project at AAAS postponed According to the AAAS alcohol he or she knows anyone who drinks MillerCoors put on hold its plans project, the middle school years are alcohol and whether it is at to launch of ‘Red Sparks’, a new crucial in the battle to prevent early or has been brought into their caffeine-infused alcoholic energy alcohol use. Young adolescents’ school. Answer questions. Have drink following pressure from 25 bodies and friendships are this conversation often. State Attorneys general. MillerCoors changing. They start pulling away ∑ Talk to your kids when everything LLC said in a statement that it from parents; yet seek out other is fine. Middle school students are won’t go ahead with the launch of adults for guidance. It’s the most volatile, hormonal beings. They are the drink, previously scheduled for vulnerable time, specialists say, but sweet and wonderful one moment, Oct. 1. also one of the last times they still and blow up the next. Pick a time In a letter the attorneys general can be influenced by adults. when things are quiet and they’re asked the company, a joint venture “As parents better understand the a captive audience such as in the between SABMiller’s U.S. unit physiological effects of alcohol on backseat of your car. Don’t take no and Molson Coors Brewing Co., the body and the fact that their for an answer. to abandon its plans, citing health children might be starting younger, ∑ Engage your kids in the science of risks to young drinkers. It also it can motivate them to have this alcohol. Adolescents are incredibly argued that the new drink would sometimes awkward conversation,” self-involved. Alcohol can cause have more alcohol than previous says Shirley Malcom, head of memory loss, impair sports versions and that it “defies increasing Education and Human Resources performance, incite embarrassing undeniable evidence from medical at AAAS. “That’s where the science behaviour and affect how they feel and public health professionals can help.” and look. Make them aware of about the dangers of mixing alcohol The Science Inside Alcohol Project these facts. If there is a history of with stimulants found in energy is funded by the National Institute alcoholism in your family, explain drinks.” on and Alcoholism. about genetic predispositions The group, argued that the Members of The Science Inside towards alcohol abuse. combination of alcohol and caffeine Alcohol Project at AAAS are writing ∑ Be vigilant. There’s no alternative reduces drinkers’ sense of intoxication a book for middle school parents to monitoring your kids. Have an and therefore encourages greater and developing an interactive Web- early . Know where they are alcohol consumption. The letter based science and health curriculum at all times. Even if you are not to MillerCoors Chief Executive explaining how alcohol affects home on a weeknight, make sure Leo Kiely also hinted at a potential adolescents’ brains and bodies. [The you can reach your kids by phone. lawsuit if the product wasn’t book is scheduled for publication Get to know their new friends and pulled. in 2009]. their parents. Find out what their Earlier in September The Center Based on extensive research, the rules and level of engagement are. for Science in the Public Interest AAAS team suggests five steps ∑ Learn to trust your child. Now’s filed a suit against MillerCoors to parents can take to talk with their the time when all the work you’ve stop the brewer from selling Sparks, kids about alcohol. put into creating a value system saying that the drink is aimed at ∑ Find teachable moments. We for your child begins to pay off. those under the legal drinking age. live in a culture of celebrity. If Set limits and enforce rules, but The suit with Superior Court of the a celebrity your child admires remember to give your child room District of Columbia said it is illegal admits to a drinking problem, or to make his or her decisions, within to use caffeine, guarana, ginseng an instance of alcohol abuse occurs your comfort zone. Praise them and taurine in alcoholic beverages, in your community, talk about it. when they do well. It’s worth a all of which are in Sparks products. Ask your middle-school student if thousand words.

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College presidents seek debate on drinking age

College presidents from about the organisation. “It is a law that But the statement makes clear 100 of the nation’s best-known the people at whom it is directed the signers think the current law universities, including Duke, believe is unjust and unfair and isn’t working, citing a ‘culture of Dartmouth and Ohio State, are discriminatory.” dangerous, clandestine binge- calling on lawmakers to consider drinking,’ and noting that while Although the public phase of lowering the drinking age from 21 adults under 21 can vote and enlist campaign has not yet begun, which to 18, saying current laws actually in the military, they ‘are told they may include publishing newspaper encourage dangerous binge drinking are not mature enough to have a ads in the coming weeks, the college on campus. beer.’ Furthermore, ‘by choosing to presidents are already facing sharp use fake IDs, students make ethical The movement called the Amethyst criticism. Initiative began recruiting compromises that erode respect for The statement the presidents have presidents more than a year ago to the law.’ signed avoids calling explicitly for provoke national debate about the “I’m not sure where the dialogue a younger drinking age. Rather, it drinking age. will lead, but it’s an important topic seeks “an informed and dispassionate to American families and it deserves “This is a law that is routinely debate” over the issue and the a straightforward dialogue,” said evaded,” said John McCardell, federal highway law that made 21 William Trout, president of Rhodes former president of Middlebury the de facto national drinking age College in Memphis, Tenn., who College in Vermont who started by denying money to any state that has signed the statement. bucks the trend.

UMass claims success with social-norms campaign

The University of Massachusetts at more students who view heavy will drink to that expectation. Amherst says that binge drinking drinking as part of the college Perception can become reality.” and overall heavy drinking have experience, compounding the UMass-Amherst officials say that declined two years after the school problem. 68% of men and 58% of women at launched a social-norms campaign The UMass social-norms campaign the school report binge drinking in to combat its “Zoo Mass” reputation is linked to tougher regulation and the past two weeks, a 28% decline as a party campus. enforcement of alcohol laws and overall since 2003. Frequent heavy Using widespread advertising regulations, as well as an expansion drinking (bingeing three or more stating “We got the facts from of prevention services. The school times in the past two weeks) has you,” the school is promoting the recently received a $200,000 declined 38%. message that drinking is not as grant from the US Department of Also, a new study from the prevalent on campus as students Education to expand and evaluate University of Virginia found that tended to believe. Social-norms the programme. a social-norms campaign there theory holds that the idea that “The perception is that heavy- helped cut alcohol-related injuries behaviours like binge and underage drinking students are the norm,” among students by 2,000 between drinking are common among peers said Sally Linowski, director of 2001 and 2006, and helped reduce tends to reinforce the behaviour. the UMass-Amherst’s Centre for drunk-driving incidents by 1,511. Some believe that UMass-Amherst’s Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Source: reported in the Boston Globe, 25 reputation as a party school attracts Prevention. “So some students August 2008

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New Zealand booklet raises awareness of alcohol Australia – Melbourne issues in older people night club lockout The Alcohol Advisory Council, costs when people are hurt and not A three-month trial lockout (ALAC) and Age Concern have just able to function in the same way. affecting four inner Melbourne released a booklet called Alcohol While some falls can be prevented municipalities ended at the and Older People - Information for by keeping active, tackling other beginning of September. Under older people, family, friends and contributing issues – such as alcohol the lockout, patrons were not carers to highlight the potential – will help too.” allowed enter or re-enter pubs and dangers alcohol has for the 65+ age The booklet is aimed at older people nightclubs after 2am. group. as well as their family, friends and Victorian Premier John Brumby Alcohol can affect some people carers. It also offers tips for self- has said that he is keeping an open differently as they grow older because regulating alcohol consumption, mind about extending the lockout the body changes how it processes such as: and is also considering other alcohol. Also, the combination of • Noticing any increased effect measures. The review would take alcohol and prescription medication that alcohol is having and adjust into account police statistics on can have a sedating effect that can alcohol intake accordingly arrests, assaults and charges as well lead to an increased risk of accidents • Checking with the doctor or as hospital admissions he stated. and injury. pharmacist whether drinking Mr Brumby said the onus was also “New Zealanders who are over alcohol is safe with prescribed and on licensees to serve alcohol more 65 have a one in three chance of over-the-counter medication responsibly and on revellers to show having a fall each year. That rises • Working out a personal weekly restraint. He said troublemakers to one in two when they reach 80. limit and stick to it were a minority and there were And the sad fact is that these falls • Having no more than two other measures in place to help often lead to a loss of independence standard drinks a day with, or clean up Melbourne’s streets, or even death,” said Jennifer Brown, before, a meal including more police, 24 hour ACC’s manager of public safety • Having at least two alcohol-free bans on unruly patrons and a freeze programmes. “Caring for people in days each week on new liquor licences. the 65+ age group who’ve had a fall costs New Zealanders around $11 • Avoiding alcohol when feeling Venue operators have rallied against million each year, and that’s just unwell, depressed, tired, or cold. the lockout, with 120 winning the financial cost via ACC. There Copies of the resource can be exemptions. are of course very significant social ordered from ALAC’s web site www.alac.org.nz Australian define intoxication guidelines In New South Wales, the state’s managers. Staff are supposed to use from re-entering for 24 hours - or Office of Liquor and Gaming them in determining when to refuse face an $11,000 fine. have drawn up an official list of alcohol to patrons. If a patron fails to leave, managers intoxication symptoms, so pub Drafted in response to tough new have been advised to contact police owners can tell when patrons are liquor laws introduced in NSW, in order to avoid being fined. drunk. Among the 39 signs of the guidelines also recommend that The department said the guidelines intoxication are: “bumping into clubs and pubs provide free food were drafted to help bar staff form furniture”, “sleeping at a bar or and bottled water to drinkers, in a a reasonable belief that a person is table” and “inability to find one’s bid to curb alcohol-related violence. intoxicated. However, it warned mouth with a glass”. Under the laws, managers are that the list was neither exhaustive The intoxication guidelines, have required to remove drunk patrons nor conclusive. been distributed to club and pub from the premises and stop them

Aim Digest PAGE 24 ORGANISATIONS

UNITED KINGDOM EUROPE

Alcohol Concern Brewers of Europe Deutsche Wein Akademie GMBH First Floor 8 Shelton Street, London WC2 9JR Rue Caroly 23-25, B-1060 Bruxelles Tel: (++32.2) 672 Gutenbergplatz 3-5, 55116 Mainz Tel: (0207) 395 4000 Fax: (0207) 395 4005 23 92 Fax: (++32.2) 660 94 02 Tel.49-2641-9065801 (home office) website www. alcoholconcern.org.uk email: [email protected] 49-6131-282948 (head office) Fax:49-2641-9065802 Alcohol Education And Research Council website: www.brewersofeurope.org email:[email protected] Abell House, John Islip Street, London SW1P 4LH website: www.deutscheweinakademie.de Forum of Taste and Education Tel: (0207) 217 5276 Livornostraat 13 b 5 rue de Livourne – Brussel 1050 FIVIN The Medical Council on Alcohol Bruxelles, Plaza Penedés, 3, 3,08720 Vilafranca del Penedés, 3 St. Andrew’s Place, London, NW1 4LB Tel: 32 2 539 36 64 Fax: 32 2 537 81 56 Barcelona, Tel: (0207) 487 4445 Fax: (0207) 9354479 email: [email protected] Tel: 0034 (93) 890 45 45 Fax: 0034 (93) 890 46 11 The Portman Group Enterprise et Prevention 7-10 Chandos Street, Cavendish Square, 13, Rue Monsigny, 75002 Paris, France GODA London W1G 9DQ Tel: 00-33-53-43-80-75 Gode Alkoholdninger, Kattesundet 9, DK-1458 Tel: 020 7907 3700 Fax: 020 7907 3710 email: [email protected] København K, Tel: 33 13 93 83 email: [email protected] website: www.soifdevivre.com Fax: 33 13 03 84 email: [email protected] website: www.portman-group.org.uk website: www.goda.dk IREB The Drinkaware Trust 19, avenue Trudaine, 75009 Paris FIVS International Federation of Wines & Spirits 7-10 Chandos Street, Cavendish Square, Tel: +33 (1) 48 74 82 19 Fax: +33 (1) 48 78 17 56 18, rue d’Aguesseau, F-75008 - PARIS France London W1G 9DQ email: [email protected] website: www.ireb.com Tél. 33 01 42 68 82 48 Fax 33 01 40 06 06 98 Tel: 020 7307 7450 Fax: 0207 307 7460 email : [email protected] email: [email protected] OIV website:www.fivs.org website: www.drinkawaretrust.org.uk 18 rue d’Aguesseau, 75008 Paris, France EFRD The European Forum for Responsible Drinking www.drinkaware.co.uk Tel: +33 (0) 1 44 94 80 94 Fax: +33 (0) 1 42 66 90 63 email: [email protected] website: www.oiv.int Place Stéphanie, 6, B -1050 Bruxelles T: + 32.2.505.60.72 Alcohol Focus Scotland STIVA F: + 32.2.502.69.71 2nd Floor 166 Buchanan Street, Glasgow G1 2NH website: www.efrd.org Tel: 0141-572 6700 Fax: 041-333 1606 Benoordenhoutseweg 22-23, NL-2596 BA, website: www.alcohol-focus-scotland.org.uk The Hague,The Tel: +31 (0)70 314 2480 Fax: +31(0) 70 314 2481 MEAS Limited BBPA British Beer and Pub Association email: [email protected]. Merrion House Market Towers, 1, Nine Elms Lane,London. SW8 website: www.stiva.nl 1/3 Fitzwilliam Street Lower 5NQ Tel: 020 7627 9191 Fax:020 7627 9123 Dublin 2, Ireland email: [email protected] Fundacion Alcohol Y Sociedad Tel: 00 353 1 611 4811 Fax: 00 353 1 611 4808 website: www.beerandpub.com Villalar, 4 1º izq. 28001 website: www.meas.ie Tel: + 34 91 745 08 44 Fax: + 34 91 561 8955 www.drinkaware.ie Wine & Spirit Education Trust email: [email protected] International Wine & Spirit Centre website: www.alcoholysociedad.org The European Federation Of Wine & Spirit Importers 39-45 Bermondsey Street And Distributors (EFWSID) London SE1 3XF Scandanavian Medical Alcohol Board Five Kings House Telephone: 020 7089 3800 Fax:020 7089 3845 Vandværksvej 11 DK - 5690 Tommerup 1 Queen Street Place Email: [email protected] Tel: 45 64 75 22 84 Fax: 45 64 75 28 44 London EC4R 1XX email: smab@org Tel +44 (0) 20 7248 5377 Fax +44(0) 20 7489 0322 The Wine and Spirit Trade Association website: www.smabnordic.com email: [email protected] International Wine & Spirit Centre 39 - 45 Bermondsey Street London SE1 3XF tel: +44 (0)20 7089 3877 fax: +44 (0)20 7089 3870 Email: [email protected] website: www.wsta.co.uk USA, , , AUSTRALIA

American Council On Science And Health FISAC The Century Council 1995 Broadway, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10023-5860 (Fundacion de Investigaciones Sociales A.C.) Francisco 1310 G Street, NW, Suite 600, Tel: (212) 362-7044 Ext. 234 Fax: (212) 362-4919 Sosa 230. Coyoacan CP 04000 DF - Mexico Washington, DC 20005-3000 email: [email protected] website: www.acsh.org Tel:+52.5552 2194 Tel: (202) 637-0077 Fax: (202) 637-0079 Fax: +52 5554 0161 email: [email protected] Beer Institute email: [email protected] website: www.centurycouncil.org 122 C Street, NW #750, website:www.alcoholinformate.org.mx Washington DC 20001 California Association Of Winegrape Growers Tel:(202) 737-2337 Fax: (202) 737-7004 601 University Avenue, Suite 135 Sacramento, CA email:[email protected] The Wine Institute 95825 email: [email protected] website: www.beerinstitute.org 425 Market Street, Suite 1000, San Francisco, CA website: www.cawg.org 94105, USA Tel: (415) 512-0151 Fax: (415) 442-0742 Distilled Spirits Council Of The US Lodi-Woodridge Winegrape Commission 1250 Eye Street, NW, Suite 400, Traffic Injury Research Foundation. 2545 West Turner Road Lodi, CA 95242 USA Washington DC 20005 Suite 200, 171 Nepean Street, Ottawa, , email:[email protected] Tel:(202) 628-3544 website: www.discus.org Canada, K2P 0B4 Tel: 613-238-5235 website: www.lodiwine.com email: [email protected] Proyecto Ciencia Vino Y Salud website:www.trafficinjuryresearch.com Oldways Preservation & Exchange Trust Facultad de ciencias Biológicas, 266 Beacon Street Boston, MA 02116 617.421.5500 Casilla 114 D. Santiago, ICAP Fax: 617.421.5511 website: www.oldwayspt.org Tel:/Fax: (56-23) 222 2577 International Center for Alcohol Policies email: [email protected] 1519 New Hampshire Avenue, NW The Australian Wine Research Institute Washington DC 20036 PO Box 197, glen Osmond 5064, South Australia, Éduc’ Alcool Tel: (202) 986-1159 Fax: (202) 986-2080 Australia. Tel: 61 8 8303 6600 Fax: 61 6 303 6601 606, Cathcart, Suite 700, Montréal, Québec, H3B 1K9 website: www.icap.org website: www.awri.com.au Canada Tel: (514) 875-7454 email: [email protected] website: www.educalcool.qc.ca

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