International Policies to Reduce Alcohol Consumption and Related Harms

Abstract

People in many countries are reluctant to accept evidence of the serious harm associated with use of alcohol and are skeptical about evidence-based policies designed to reduce this harm. While educational strategies in isolation have had only limited impact on alcohol-related problems, targeted controls on the economic and physical availability of alcohol, restrictions on alcohol promotions, and strategies that render the drinking environment safer have been shown to be effective. In order to overcome community resistance to effective alcohol policies, a new focus for alcohol education is needed which will increase awareness of both harms (to drinkers and to others) and understanding of evidence-based responses.