PREVENTIVE STRATEGIES FOR ALCOHOL-RELATED PROBLEMS

Preventive strategies for alcohol-related problems need to be in keepi ng with their socio-political context. Prohibition is inappropriate ex cept where it has widespread support within the culture. Preventive st rategies focus on the population and/or high risk groups and behaviour s. Primary prevention can be achieved by control policies, education a nd provision of alternatives. Fiscal measures are of proven value. Leg islative approaches influence availability and context of drinking, su ch as drinking and driving. Advertising control, server training and s erver liability are further approaches. Encouraging the provision of a lternative beverages and promoting alcohol-free environments is a furt her approach which should be seen as part of an integrated community r esponse. Secondary prevention linked with early recognition of hazardo us drinking at primary level is of known efficacy and would form part of a coordinated strategy.