Institute of Alcohol Studies
Institute of Alcohol Studies
Alcohol Alert - April 2024
Alcohol Alert - April 2024
Alcohol Alert - April 2024
Monday 29th April 2024
Explore the rise in alcohol deaths and the complex ties between Public Health England, Portman Group, and Drinkaware in this insightful episode.
36 minutes
concerned
informative
critical
challenging
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Institute of Alcohol Studies
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Get the buttons here!Unpacking Alcohol Deaths & Industry Ties
Episode Overview
- Alcohol-specific deaths have risen by 33% since 2019.
- Public Health England's ties with industry groups are scrutinized.
- Drink Free Days campaign under critical analysis.
- The Portman Group's influence on alcohol advisory groups.
- Need for evidence-based alcohol policy reforms.
The true number of deaths where alcohol played a role is likely to be two or three times higher than this figure.
In the latest episode of the Alcohol Alert podcast, the Institute of Alcohol Studies delves into pressing issues surrounding alcohol-specific deaths and the intricate relationships between public health bodies and the alcohol industry. Host discussions with Dr Katherine Severi, Chief Executive of IAS, and Dr Nason Maani, a lecturer in Inequalities and Global Health Policy at the University of Edinburgh, provide a comprehensive look at the alarming rise in deaths wholly attributable to alcohol and the complexities of alcohol policy in the UK.
The episode begins with Dr Severi shedding light on the latest statistics released by the Office for National Statistics, which indicate over 10,000 deaths in 2022 linked directly to alcohol. This marks a significant 4% increase from the previous year and a staggering 33% rise since 2019. The discussion highlights that these figures only represent deaths entirely due to alcohol, while many others, such as those from alcohol-related cancers and heart diseases, contribute to a larger picture of alcohol-related harm.
Dr Maani's segment shifts focus to the 'Perils of Partnership' — his recent study examining correspondence between Public Health England, the Portman Group, and Drinkaware during the Drink Free Days campaign. This campaign, running from 2018 to 2019, was intended to promote alcohol-free days. However, Dr Maani unveils the collegial relationship between these entities, raising questions about the influence of the alcohol industry on public health policies.
The Portman Group's attempts to exclude civil society from advisory groups and the selective information presented by Drinkaware are critically analyzed. The episode underscores the need for clear and independent public health strategies, free from industry influence. It emphasizes the importance of evidence-based measures, such as minimum unit pricing, and the challenges posed by the affordability and promotion of alcohol.
In conclusion, the podcast calls for a reevaluation of current policies and partnerships, advocating for stronger public health frameworks that prioritize societal welfare over industry interests. As the discussion closes, listeners are left contemplating the future of alcohol policy and the steps necessary to address the growing crisis of alcohol-related harm.