SAMJ "A total ban on alcohol advertising: Presenting the public health case"

[HIV Ethics & Policy]

From the latest SAMJ, considering arguments for and against the proposed ban of alcohol advertising.

Article downloadable from

http://www.samj.org.za/index.php/samj/article/view/5945 

South African Medical Journal, Vol 102, No 7 (2012)

A total ban on alcohol advertising: Presenting the public health case

Charles Parry, Nadine Harker Burnhams, Leslie London

http://www.samj.org.za/index.php/samj/article/view/5945 

Abstract

Evidence from burden of disease and economic costing studies amply indicate that the public health burden from hazardous and harmful use of alcohol in South Africa warrants drastic action. Evidence that banning alcohol advertising is likely to be an effective intervention is reflected in WHO strategy documents on non-communicable diseases and harmful use of alcohol. Studies on young people furthermore support arguments refuting the claim that advertising only influences brand choice. Given the weakness of relying on industry self-regulation, the government is considering legislation to ban alcohol advertising, resulting in heated debate. Tobacco control and studies investigating the effect of alcohol advertising bans on consumption and alcohol-related deaths point to the effectiveness of such action – ideally supplemented by other policy interventions. Arguments against an advertising ban include possible communication sector job losses, but these are likely to have been exaggerated. Banning alcohol advertising will necessitate greater scrutiny of digital media, satellite television and merchandising to reduce the likelihood of subverting the ban.