On 21 April, the European Commission published a new Eurobarometer on ‘EU citizens’ attitudes towards alcohol’. This EU-wide survey is conducted on a systematic basis to analyse and compare EU citizen’s alcohol consumption patterns, their perception of alcohol’s impact on social and health issues and their opinions on useful policy measures to reduce consecutive harm. Amongst others, this European survey concludes that whereas 97% of EU citizens are aware of the link between alcohol consumption and liver disease only 67% believe that drinking has an impact on developing cancer. With regards to the effectiveness of policy to reduce alcohol-related harm, a small majority of respondents believe individuals are responsible enough to protect themselves from alcohol-related harm whereas 43% call for public interventions to protect individuals. However, a clear majority supports measures such as lowered legally punishable blood alcohol levels in road traffic for young and inexperienced drivers, banning alcohol advertising targeting young people, health warnings on bottles for pregnant women and drivers as well as warnings on alcohol advertisements.

Access the new Eurobarometer on EU citizens’ attitudes towards alcohol here.