Globally, alcohol consumption is estimated to cause more than 10% of the burden of noncommunicable diseases, including cirrhosis of the liver, respiratory disease, pancreatitis, cancers (oral and pharynx, larynx, oesophagus, liver, colorectal), strokes and hypertension.

Dag Rekve and colleagues claim: "Despite the existence of cost effective interventions to reduce harmful use of alcohol, many countries are not giving it the attention it deserves"

This analysis, published by the bmj, provides evidence that points to a continuing need for action on alcohol in all countries. 

It also...

Abstract

Objectives: Mental health problems and hazardous alcohol consumption often co-exist. Hazardous drinking could have a negative impact on different aspects of health and also negatively influence the effect of mental health treatment. The aims of this study were to examine if alcohol consumption patterns changed after treatment for depression and if the changes differed by treatment arm and patient sex.

Methods: This study of 540 participants was conducted in a large randomised controlled trial (RCT) that aimed to compare the effect of internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy...

Drinking to excess takes a huge toll on individuals, families, communities and society as a whole.

Many adult problem drug users have long histories of substance misuse which often starts before the age of 18.

Providing well-funded, targeted and effective substance misuse services is vital to help prevent alcohol abuse, enable people to overcome addiction and sustain their recovery.

The case studies that make up this Local Government Association report, highlight the work being carried out to develop high-quality lifestyle and behaviour change services, as well as treatment for those...

Despite efforts to reduce concerning levels of alcohol consumption in Europe through adopting the WHO European Action Plan on Alcohol (EAPA), the region continues to have the highest prevalence of drinkers, heavy episodic drinking, alcohol consumption per capita, and the lowest proportion of abstainers, compared with other regions around the world.

Efforts to introduce policies that prevent and control non-communicable diseases are frequently hampered by trade agreements, conflicting economic interests, or the challenges of controlling online advertising and sales.

On examination of the WHO...