Sydney: Alcohol abuse is a bigger problem
for Pacific communities than drugs, according to an Australian
report, which links drinking to domestic violence and
wide-ranging health problems.
The Burnet Institute survey, commissioned by the
Australian National Council on Drugs, found that alcohol was
the key area of concern in the Pacific, some of whose isolated
communities are among the most impoverished in the world.
"It very clearly identifies alcohol as the main substance
of concern in the Pacific region and shows that cannabis is
the key illicit drug of concern in the region," said co-author
Robert Power Thursday.
"Significantly this really is the first time we have a
much clearer picture of the extensive harm occurring in
countries that are our neighbours. Alcohol is considered to be
the major factor contributing to numerous health problems
affecting people in the Pacific."
The report calls for Australian and New Zealand
drink-makers, whose products are widely consumed in the
Pacific, to help ease the problem. Recommendations include
providing treatment programmes and improving data collection.
"We see constantly the clear harm alcohol causes to the
Australian community," said John Herron, chairman of the
Australian council.
PTI
