The Framework for alcohol policy in the WHO European Region identifies the need for regional level action. But additionallyit describes a need for coordinated and strategic national efforts. In relation to national alcohol action plans it states that:- there is a need for supporting local communities in the development and implementation of effective measures in order to effectively prevent or reduce alcohol-related harm;
- a strong case can be made for restricting availability;
- availability plays a particularly important role in youth drinking, with social availability of alcohol, through parents and friends, calling for wider action;
- education and information should be combined with other measures in a comprehensive strategy;
- local regulation and enforcement can effectively reduce rates of alcohol-related problems like drink-driving accidents, violence and public disturbance;
- the efficacy of screening and brief intervention for hazardous drinking in primary health care is supported by a large body of international research literature; and that
- alcohol policies in the workplace need to be adopted to reach hazardous drinkers through workplace interventions.
(WHO, 2006c) | |
Literature and data sources
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