Scientists Reveal a Simple Strategy Proven to Reduce Alcohol Consumption

Researchers have found a successful way to encourage people to drink less alcohol: emphasize the heightened cancer risk associated with alcohol consumption and combine this with tracking every drink.

In a 2021 study, researchers found that combining messages about “why to reduce” alcohol intake with “how to reduce” it could effectively promote better health. While excessive drinking is linked to cancer, it also increases the risk of other issues such as premature death, heart disease, digestive problems, and dementia.

“We found that providing information about alcohol and cancer alongside a practical action—counting drinks—led to a reduction in alcohol consumption,” said Simone Pettigrew, an economist and psychologist at The George Institute for Global Health.

Study Overview

The study involved three surveys: 7,995 participants completed the first, followed by 4,588 three weeks later, and 2,687 completed the final one. Participants were divided into groups that viewed various ads and messages about alcohol consumption.

One combination proved notably effective compared to a control group: a TV ad linking alcohol with cancer, paired with a suggestion to count drinks, significantly motivated participants to reduce their drinking.

It was the only approach that led to a significant reduction in alcohol consumption over the six-week period. Other strategies, such as setting a drink limit, motivated some participants to attempt cutting down, but this combination clearly stood out in the study.

“Many people are unaware that alcohol is a carcinogen,” Pettigrew explained. “Providing this information is crucial, but it’s equally important to offer practical steps to help individuals reduce their risk.”

Global Impact of Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol is linked to up to 7% of premature deaths worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Raising awareness of its health risks is one way to address this issue.

Although health authorities have considered strategies like making alcohol less accessible and more expensive, long-term behavior change ultimately depends on personal decisions.

This study’s participants were representative of Australia’s drinking population, so while the approach may not be universally applicable, counting drinks could be a helpful method for anyone looking to cut back.

Pettigrew emphasized the importance of identifying which messages are most effective, stating, “With limited resources for alcohol harm-reduction campaigns, it’s crucial to determine which messages resonate the most to give them the best chance of success.”

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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