Alcohol understanding for all
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In this issue: Thailand moots graphic labels; Lithuania mulls tax rise; Nigeria suspends sachet ban; Risky drinkers not listening: “Dire consequences” expected; Cricket captain promotes alcohol free spirit
Thai label: A proposed graphic warning on alcohol will cover at least one-third of the container and include messages like “Alcoholic beverages can cause cancer” and “Selling alcoholic beverages to people under 20 is punishable by imprisonment and a fine”.
Tax raising: Lithuania’s Finance Ministry has proposed raising excise duties on alcohol implemented for three consecutive years, starting in 2025. Together with tobacco tax increase it is estimated to raise a total of €126.7m.
Sachet suspension: A Nigerian House of Representatives Committee ordered the suspension of a ban on sale of spirits and alcoholic drinks in sachets and pet bottles after a series of protests.
Not listening: Heavy drinkers rated a WHO message on the risk of alcohol-related health problems as less believable than lower risk drinkers. They were also both more fearful of it while wanting to think about it less, while also feeling less at risk.
Hurry up: There will be “dire consequences” for low and middle income countries if governments do not act speedily t enact effective alcohol policies, experts warned.
Preparedness value: A new “alcohol preparedness index” puts a number on the robustness of alcohol-related public health policies in 169 countries. Europe achieved the highest score with 77, while Africa had the lowest score with 39.
Cricket champion: Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins became the global ambassador of non-alcoholic spirit brand Lyre’s.