Question

Question 3: Globally various prevention measures have been introduced for control of excessive alcohol use. Examples include: • Taxes • Time restrictions • Age restrictions • Restricting sponsorship from alcohol industry • Media campaigns • Fines on alcohol consumption in public areas • Other penalties • Alcohol-free zones Which of these prevention measures are or can be more effective in a location of your choice and why?? Support your response with examples. Note: you can choose one or more prevention measures. Word limit: 500 words

Answer 1

Excessive Alcohol consumption either in the form of beer, wine, whisky, spirits and other forms is a Global Burden. Alcohol Consumption in excess and Alcohol dependence is a global problem causing serious health issues to the drinker such as cirrhosis of liver, cardiovascular disorders, Cancers, Diabetes Mellitus, neuropsychiatric disorders, Violent Behaviours to name a few. To the families excessive alcohol consumer will neglect the family and children and lower the socioeconomic status of the members, and at work places there will be increased absenteeism of bad behaviour toward colleagues.

It leads to 2.5 million deaths per year globally. Highest alcohol consumption is seen in developed countries, what starts as a recreation turns into addiction. In developing countries though alcohol consumption is considered as a social taboo, slow consumption turns into addiction in these people.

Since the early alcohol consumption starts at younger age due to peer pressure, wanting to try consuming alcohol, an increase in the age limits for alcohol consumption can help in reducing the exposure to alcohol and its ill effects.

Increasing the social awareness about ill effects of drinking alcohol at young age, driving vehicles after excessive drinking, ill effects of alcohol on health, and effects of excessive alcohol on social and financial condition of individual. This can be done at community levels by posters in schools, colleges, public transportation places, advertisement in newspapers, Internet, Television etc. Street plays and dance forms of ill effects of excess alcohol consumption is another way. Children can be educated about ill effects of alcohol by incorporating the same in the syllabus.

Other strategies such as increasing the taxes levied on alcoholic beverages, putting sentences such as Consuming alcohol produces damage to health (Panama), Drinking alcohol in excess is harmful (Peru) can be used. Other governmental policies such as avoiding alcohol companies to sponsor any major public events, increasing the fine on people who drink and drive will be helpful.

Finally it should be a combined effort of the government policies, Family members and Individuals that can help to keep this social problem in control.