US report signals shift in alcohol policy

A “landmark” report from the US surgeon general that signals a shift in alcohol policy towards reducing sigma surrounding addiction has been welcomed by trade associations in the country.

US surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy has put a focus on alcohol addiction

Published yesterday (17 November), Facing Addiction in America: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health marks the first time a US Surgeon General has dedicated a report to substance misuse and related disorders.

In addition to alcohol, the report also addresses illicit and prescription drug misuse, and include recommendations for addressing addiction as a health concern in the future.

The report calls addiction an “underappreciated yet critical” public health challenge, and claims that one in seven people in the country will develop a substance use disorder at some point in their lives. Despite the high number, only one in 10 will receive treatment.

“Alcohol and drug addiction take an enormous toll on individuals, families, and communities,” said Dr Vivek Murthy, US surgeon general.

“Most Americans know someone who has been touched by an alcohol or a drug use disorder. Yet 90 percent of people with a substance use disorder are not getting treatment. That has to change.”

The report calls for action to reduce the stigma associated with addiction, to change the way people perceive substance abuse disorders, to better recognise substance misuse and to expand access to treatment.

Murthy continued: “It’s time to change how we view addiction, not as a moral failing but as a chronic illness that must be treated with skill, urgency and compassion. The way we address this crisis is a test for America.”

“We are pleased to see the surgeon general’s report acknowledges that moderate alcohol consumption can be part of a healthy diet for adults,” said The Distilled Spirits Council, Beer Institute and Wine Institute in a joint statement.

“We also welcome the Surgeon General’s efforts to destigmatize treatment and recovery for those for whom alcohol consumption is a concern.

“The prevailing and widely accepted research shows that one-size-fits-all policies, including advertising bans and tax increases, fail to effectively address the problem of alcohol abuse, divert resources from more targeted approaches, and unfairly and negatively impact moderate and responsible consumers.

“Significant progress has been made in reducing alcohol abuse, including long-term declines in drunk driving and underage drinking. More remains to be done and we stand ready to support proven strategies to combat alcohol abuse.”

Meanwhile in the UK chief medial officers are focusing on reducing recommended alcohol limits, reducing men’s limits in line with women’s.