NCJ Number
147859
Editor(s)
A Paton
Date Published
1993
Length
36 pages
Annotation
The European Alcohol Action Plan describes ways to help european member states prevent the health risks and social consequences arising from alcohol use.
Abstract
Europe has the highest alcohol consumption in the world. Health and social services, transportation, the workplace, and criminal justice systems bear the brunt of alcohol-related harm. In some of the countries of Europe, the economic burden is estimated to account for 2-3 percent of gross national product, and alcohol can be responsible for 8-10 percent of deaths in the age range 16-74. To help member states reduce overall alcohol consumption and combat high-risk behavior, the Plan's authors suggest five areas for immediate action: (1) Public policies which relate to alcohol in member states; (2) Consensus with international agencies in joint action; (3) Settings that promote health; (4) Primary health care; and (5) Support systems. The World Health Organization's Regional Office for Europe will: (1) coordinate implementation of the Plan; (2) develop an effective network of appropriate partners; (3) provide staff resources and financial support from its regular budget. To ensure that it has a sustained impact, the Action Plan will continue until the year 2000. Figures, references, appendixes