A rapid evidence review of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of alcohol control policies: an English perspective

Citation

Burton R, Henn C, Lavoie D, O'Connor R, Perkins C, Sweeney K, Greaves F, Ferguson B, Beynon C, Belloni A, Musto V, Marsden J & Sheron N (2017) A rapid evidence review of the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of alcohol control policies: an English perspective. The Lancet, 389 (10078), pp. 1558-1580. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736%2816%2932420-5

Abstract
This paper reviews the evidence for the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of policies to reduce alcohol-related harm. Policies focus on price, marketing, availability, information and education, the drinking environment, drink-driving, and brief interventions and treatment. Although there is variability in research design and measured outcomes, evidence supports the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of policies that address affordability and marketing. An adequate reduction in temporal availability, particularly late night on-sale availability, is effective and cost-effective. Individually-directed interventions delivered to at-risk drinkers and enforced legislative measures are also effective. Providing information and education increases awareness, but is not sufficient to produce long-lasting changes in behaviour. At best, interventions enacted in and around the drinking environment lead to small reductions in acute alcohol-related harm. Overall, there is a rich evidence base to support the decisions of policy makers in implementing the most effective and cost-effective policies to reduce alcohol-related harm.

Journal
The Lancet: Volume 389, Issue 10078