News

An adapted alcohol screening test will help to fight health harms in the Russian Federation and beyond 01-07-2021
WHO/Europe has presented a new package of Russian- and English-language materials to help primary health-care workers in many countries of the eastern part of the WHO European Region to identify patients with risky drinking behaviours. The materials will allow health professionals to support people who might experience harm from drinking or be at risk without even knowing it.
WHO/Europe launches a new Russian-language podcast on the hottest health topics 25-05-2021
“The how of WHO” (“ВОЗ рекомендует” in Russian) is a new podcast from WHO/Europe. It is tailored specifically to the interests of Russian speakers across the broad and diverse WHO European Region. The aim of the podcast is to explain in simple terms where public health recommendations come from and what an individual can do to stay healthy.
Reducing harm due to alcohol: success stories from 3 countries 15-04-2021
The WHO-recommended “best buys” for alcohol policy can easily help countries to reduce health harms related to alcohol consumption. But according to the new WHO/Europe report “Making the WHO European Region SAFER. Developments in alcohol control policies, 2010–2019”, not many Member States use these measures. Experience from Lithuania, Scotland and the Russian Federation shows how effective they can be when countries choose to implement them.
Alcohol policies for the European Region: new WHO research reveals eastern Member States are leading the way 15-04-2021
Although the WHO European Region has experienced an overall decrease in alcohol consumption levels, this trend is only associated with the progress achieved by a small number of countries mainly from the eastern part of the Region. With a few notable exceptions, western European countries, including countries within the European Union (EU), have made little or no progress in the reduction of alcohol consumption.
World Cancer Day: know the facts – tobacco and alcohol both cause cancer 04-02-2021
On World Cancer Day, marked on 4 February, WHO/Europe is focusing on the need to minimize exposure to both alcohol and tobacco. While many people understand the risks of developing cancer associated with smoking, many remain unaware that alcohol also causes cancer.
Reaching Turkey’s health policy goals could avert thousands of deaths says research from WHO/Europe 19-01-2021
Approximately 20 000 deaths could have been averted in Turkey in 2017 if the country had reached its current goals of reducing tobacco and salt consumption by 30%, and physical inactivity by 10%, according to WHO/Europe experts in an article published in the Lancet. The study calculated possible outcomes of the action plan for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) adopted in the country for 2017–2025.
New data from WHO/Europe shows links between gender and noncommunicable diseases 09-12-2020
Men and women have different biological and behavioural risk factors for contracting noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), as shown by a new series of WHO reports released today. The reports analyse gender-specific data on NCDs from 8 different countries providing interesting insights on the links between gender and certain NCDs.
WHO/Europe highlights how alcohol undermines sustainable development across the WHO European Region 18-11-2020
A new factsheet, “Alcohol consumption and sustainable development”, prepared by the WHO Regional Office for Europe, draws attention to the barriers alcohol consumption presents across the Region to achieving 13 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
STEPS survey reveals high prevalence of noncommunicable disease risk factors in Ukraine 17-11-2020
Over one third of Ukrainians were tobacco smokers in 2019, according to the results of the first nationwide, large-scale STEPwise approach to surveillance (STEPS) survey on the main risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in Ukraine. The data also demonstrate a large gender gap: 50.3% of men smoked compared to 16.7% of women.
New WHO/Europe factsheet: policy action needed to reduce cancers attributable to alcohol use 16-11-2020
The new WHO/Europe factsheet, “Alcohol and cancer in the WHO European Region: an appeal for better prevention”, emphasizes causal links between alcohol use and a range of cancers, including some of the most common types, such as female breast cancer and colorectal cancer. It also makes clear that alcohol-attributable cancers and deaths can be reduced through implementation of cost-effective policies, such as increasing taxes on alcoholic beverages and restricting marketing and availability of alcohol.
Research project builds national capacities to evaluate alcohol control policies in Baltic states and beyond 12-11-2020
The WHO-supported international research project “Evaluation of the impact of alcohol control policies on morbidity and mortality in Lithuania and other Baltic states” is holding a series of capacity-building workshops. These workshops aim to establish a network of researchers and equip them with in-depth knowledge and practical skills to gather valuable data and statistics, and to identify and evaluate best practices for reducing alcohol-related harm across northern Europe and beyond.
New report showcases eastern European and central Asian countries as pioneers in cost-effective alcohol policies 20-10-2020
WHO has published a new report which showcases the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries – Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, the Republic of Moldova, the Russian Federation, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan – as pioneers in implementing the most cost-effective policies to reduce alcohol intake and alcohol-attributable harm in the WHO European Region.
Focusing on noncommunicable diseases to “build back better” 18-09-2020
The focus on accountability of this year’s Global Week for Action on NCDs (noncommunicable diseases) follows a United Nations-wide call from Secretary-General António Guterres “to use the recovery to build back better” – a call to take advantage of the opportunities that COVID-19 has presented us. This is highly relevant in the area of NCDs, where WHO has recently produced several resources that show that the European Region stands ready and willing to #ActOnNCDs with governments, donors and partners.
Progress reports on health and sustainable development now available for Georgia, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan 16-09-2020
WHO has launched 3 new sustainable development country progress reports for Georgia, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, as part of the Global Action Plan for Healthy Lives and Well-being for All.
New research grant will help to find best practices of tackling alcohol consumption in the Baltics 16-07-2020
A new international project "Evaluation of the impact of alcohol control policies on morbidity and mortality in Lithuania and other Baltic states" funded by the US National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has been launched to investigate the effects of alcohol market regulations implemented in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. The research backed by WHO/Europe is designed for a 5-year work plan that can ultimately benefit all countries of the European Region, identifying the best practices that can help lower alcohol consumption and associated health harms.
Lack of regulation leaves door open to harmful digital marketing of alcohol 09-07-2020
According to a newly published report, “Alcohol marketing in the WHO European Region”, alcohol marketing is adapting to new realities faster than current legal regulations across the Region, with industry using opportunities offered by digital platforms to sell their products in a largely unregulated market. The publication explains how innovative online advertisement techniques can target consumers precisely to promote drinking. This includes children and adolescents.
WHO/Europe launches new podcast – Health in Europe 01-07-2020
Health in Europe is a new podcast from the WHO Regional Office for Europe. WHO works with thousands of inspiring and driven individuals and groups, and this podcast is about hearing their stories and how they might impact your day-to-day life.
New WHO report on alcohol pricing: Europe ignores cost-effective ways to lower health risks 30-06-2020
According to the new WHO/Europe report, “Alcohol pricing in the WHO European Region”, increasing the prices that consumers pay for alcohol is one of the most cost-effective tools available for policy-makers looking to reduce alcohol consumption and associated harm.
Alcohol labelling policies: most countries lagging behind in promoting healthier choices 08-06-2020
According to a new report, labelling of alcoholic beverages is not consistent or even considered in many countries in the WHO European Region. The new Health Evidence Network (HEN) synthesis report on alcohol labelling across the Region is the first systematic study that covers the different ways countries label alcoholic beverages and sets out policy options for authorities to consider.
The rise and rise of interpersonal violence – an unintended impact of the COVID-19 response on families 03-06-2020
“I’m so scared” is a cry for help heard in ever-increasing numbers by the brave volunteers who operate the many violence prevention helplines and services across the WHO European Region since COVID-19 response measures commenced.
WHO report on health behaviours of 11–15-year-olds in Europe reveals more adolescents are reporting mental health concerns 19-05-2020
In around a third of countries, the report reveals a rise in adolescents feeling pressured by schoolwork and a decline in young people reporting to like school. The report also discloses that over 1 in 10 adolescents report having been cyberbullied at least once in the past two months.
Alcohol does not protect against COVID-19; access should be restricted during lockdown 14-04-2020
Alcohol is known to be harmful to health in general, and is well understood to increase the risk of injury and violence, including intimate partner violence, and can cause alcohol poisoning. At times of lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, alcohol consumption can exacerbate health vulnerability, risk-taking behaviours, mental health issues and violence. WHO/Europe reminds people that drinking alcohol does not protect them from COVID-19, and encourages governments to enforce measures which limit alcohol consumption.
Alcohol reduction, human resources for health and drug policy on the agenda as Dr Östlin meets Czech Prime Minister and V4 health ministers 18-11-2019
Dr Piroska Östlin, WHO/Europe’s Regional Director ad interim, met with the Prime Minister of Czechia, Andrej Babiš, and Minister of Health, Adam Vojtěch in Prague to discuss cooperation on policies to reduce harmful use of alcohol. During the visit, Dr Östlin also attended the ministerial meeting of the Visegrad Four (V4) countries, discussing human resources for health, drug policy and future cooperation.
Harnessing disruption to improve health 14-10-2019
Disruption was the theme of this year’s European Health Forum Gastein (EHFG). Leaders in health from across Europe met to discuss how to embrace disruption in a responsible way to achieve better health for all.
Alcohol-related deaths drop in Russian Federation due to strict alcohol control measures, new report says 01-10-2019
A plunge in alcohol consumption has been linked to a dramatic rise in life expectancy in the Russian Federation, a new WHO report reveals. This follows a set of comprehensive alcohol control measures put in place by the state since 2003.
In Europe, people continue to consume more alcohol than in any other place in the world 04-09-2019
A recent WHO report shows that rates of harmful alcohol consumption in Europe have not dropped as expected, even though all countries have signed the European Action Plan to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol 2012–2020.
Nationwide campaign aims to educate women in Ukraine on the harm of alcohol consumption during pregnancy 02-08-2019
It is estimated that 25–35% of women in Ukraine consume alcohol during pregnancy. As a result, the country has one of the highest rates of fetal alcohol syndrome cases (50 cases per 10 000) in the world. This concerning situation has spurred a nationwide campaign to inform pregnant women about the devastating effects of alcohol on the fetus.
Major step towards control of noncommunicable diseases in the WHO European Region 04-07-2019
Dr Piroska Ӧstlin, Acting WHO Regional Director for Europe, and Mr Dmitry Kostennikov, Deputy Minister of Health of the Russian Federation, signed the Donor Agreement between WHO/Europe and the Russian Federation. The Agreement sets out the Russian Federation’s financial contribution for continued joint work to fight noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the Region.
Better monitoring and support needed to accelerate reductions in youth drinking and binge drinking 27-06-2019
A new WHO report presents an evaluation of progress on the Action Plan on Youth Drinking and on Heavy Episodic Drinking (Binge Drinking) (2014–2016). It points out that while important efforts have been made to reduce youth and binge drinking in the WHO European Region, better monitoring and support for implementing evidence-based policies are needed to accelerate progress.
WHO urges stronger action to reduce deaths from noncommunicable diseases in Europe by one third 09-04-2019
WHO “best buys” – targeted policy interventions aimed at reducing the burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) – can be a game-changer for achieving target 3.4 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), through which governments have committed to reducing premature deaths from NCDs by one third by 2030. The interventions range from policies that promote physical activity and curb tobacco and alcohol consumption, to reducing salt and sugar and eliminating trans-fats in food. The actions countries can take to achieve the target will be in focus at the WHO European High-level Conference on Noncommunicable Diseases taking place in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, on 9–10 April 2019.
New WHO study shows more action needed to monitor and limit digital marketing of unhealthy products to children 13-03-2019
A new report from WHO/Europe calls for greater monitoring of the digital marketing of alcohol, tobacco and unhealthy food products, especially those high in salt, sugar and fat. It comes amid the advertising industry’s continued efforts to target children and adolescents on social media and on difficult-to-track mobile devices.
New WHO factsheets reveal Europe struggles to implement policies to reduce alcohol consumption 31-01-2019
The WHO European Region struggles with one of the highest levels of alcohol-related deaths in the world. To discuss effective and evidence-based ways to reverse this trend, Member States met in Stockholm, Sweden, at the first regional consultation focused on the implementation of the European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012–2020.
Every day, about 800 people in Europe die from alcohol-attributable causes 11-01-2019
According to a recently published WHO fact sheet, Europe is still challenged by the need to reduce the burden of alcohol. Levels of alcohol consumption, and harm attributable to alcohol, remain very high – causing about 800 deaths a day.
Joint WHO-EU project reveals difficult truths about alcohol consumption in Europe 15-12-2018
The “Monitoring of national policies related to alcohol consumption and harm reduction” project (MOPAC) held its final meeting in Edinburgh on 19 November, where it presented its findings, which indicate that the harm caused by alcohol is still significant, and that reducing it will require increased efforts.
Widespread consumption of alcohol and tobacco in Czechia continues to be cause for concern 15-11-2018
In Czechia, consumption of pure alcohol stands at 14.4 litres per person per year, and more than one fifth of the population smokes. This was reported at a conference organized by the Government Council for Drug Policy Coordination on 6 November 2018.
WHO helps EU Member States enhance surveillance of alcohol consumption and harm 24-10-2018
WHO has developed a series of measures and instruments to support Member States in their efforts to enhance alcohol surveillance and improve the national processes for estimating alcohol consumption and the burden of alcohol-attributable disease.
Adolescents drink less, although levels of alcohol consumption are still dangerously high 26-09-2018
A new WHO report published today, Adolescent alcohol-related behaviours: trends and inequalities in the WHO European Region, 2002–2014, provides new insights into data collected over 12 years on adolescent drinking. The report reveals that alcohol use has declined among adolescents in Europe. However, despite the reductions, levels of consumption remain dangerously high and this continues to be a major public health concern.
There is no safe level of alcohol, new study confirms 13-09-2018
The international medical journal The Lancet published a study showing that any level of alcohol consumption, regardless of the amount, leads to loss of healthy life.
Ireland builds capacity to improve men’s health 12-09-2018
In 2008, the Irish Government released the National Men’s Health Policy 2008–2013, which included strategies for engaging men in self-care. Within this framework, the Government recently rolled out a new training programme called ENGAGE to improve the capacity of health providers and improve men’s access to and use of health services.
Research demonstrates higher alcohol taxes help reduce alcohol consumption 15-08-2018
“Tax increases may not sound the most attractive of policy options, but are the single most cost-effective way of diminishing demand and reining back consumption,” says Dr Daniel Chisholm, Programme Manager in the Division of Noncommunicable Diseases and Promoting Health through the Life-course at WHO/Europe and co-author of a new study on alcohol control policies.
New technologies to tackle digital marketing of alcohol, tobacco and unhealthy foods aimed at children and adolescents 14-08-2018
A group of experts and stakeholders from all over the WHO European Region recently highlighted the role of new technologies in responding to the harmful impact of digital marketing of alcohol, tobacco and unhealthy foods targeted at children and adolescents.
Alcohol, road traffic injuries and noncommunicable diseases 27-04-2018
Recognising cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and road traffic injuries (RTIs) as major public health hazards in the European Region, WHO/Europe held a training course on the role of alcohol as a risk factor. Participants comprised 44 policy-makers from the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). The third in a series of intersectoral training courses on NCDs, this 4-day workshop was dedicated to national practices and joint regional action on prevention of drink–driving.
Raising awareness of the link between alcohol and cancer 02-02-2018
The WHO European Region has the highest level of alcohol consumption in the world. However, the level of awareness of the link between alcohol consumption and increased risk of cancer remains low. World Cancer Day on 4 February 2018 is an opportunity to reinforce the important message that alcohol use is associated with an increased risk of cancer, and to call for the implementation of effective measures to reduce the overall use of alcohol.
Reducing young people’s access to alcohol in Cyprus 10-01-2018
The National Addictions Authority of Cyprus (NAAC) marked the country’s 5th Alcohol Awareness Week (AAW) with a joint meeting of the national committees of health and interior in early December 2017, to discuss the harmful use of alcohol with members of parliament.
WHO highlights link between alcohol and cancer at the European Parliament 12-12-2017
As part of the 5th Awareness Week on Alcohol Related Harm, WHO raised awareness on the close link between alcohol and cancer at the European Parliament. On 23 November 2017, Dr Marilys Corbex, Senior Technical Officer in the Division of Noncommunicable Diseases and Promoting Health through the Life-course at WHO/Europe, explained to an audience composed of members of parliament, health attachés and representatives of civil society that “the link between alcohol and cancer is often overlooked. With 1 in 8 alcohol-related deaths in the WHO European Region due to cancer, limiting the availability of alcoholic beverages can have a marked effect on cancer death rates.”
Supreme Court ruling enables Scottish Government to further tackle alcohol-related harm 30-11-2017
The United Kingdom’s Supreme Court ruled on 15 November 2017 that under European Union law the minimum unit pricing policy is legal. This ruling ends a 5-year legal challenge and enables the Scottish Government to implement the policy. Minimum unit pricing involves setting a minimum retail price per unit of alcohol or 8 grams of pure alcohol. In Scotland, the unit price is set at £0.50 (US$ 0.65).
Workshop in Tiraspol provides first application of new WHO alcohol brief intervention training manual 22-11-2017
A 2-day train-the-trainer workshop for therapists and narcologists on screening and brief interventions (SBIs) for alcohol took place in Tiraspol on 11–12 October 2017. The training was based on the Russian version of the new “WHO alcohol brief intervention training manual for primary care”.
Slovenia organizes workshop to share good practice in alcohol policy 16-11-2017
Representatives from ministries of health and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) along with international experts gathered in Ljubljana, Slovenia on 6–7 November for an Intersectoral Workshop on Cooperation for the Preparation of a Comprehensive Alcohol Policy for South-Eastern Europe. The objectives of the workshop were to discuss common public health objectives regarding the harmful effects of alcohol at national, regional and global levels, to strengthen cooperation across sectors, and to share good practices.
Second MOPAC project meeting held in Lisbon 31-10-2017
On 23 October, WHO Europe organized the second meeting of the Monitoring of national policies related to alcohol consumption and harm reduction (MOPAC) project. The morning session, held in collaboration with the Alcohol Policy Network, brought together national experts, governmental representatives, nongovernmental organizations and researchers from around the European Union (EU).
WHO launches training manual on alcohol brief interventions in primary care 23-10-2017
In an effort to assist Member States in introducing or expanding alcohol screening and brief intervention (SBI) programmes, WHO/Europe is launching a new training manual entitled “WHO training on alcohol brief interventions in primary care”. The manual is aimed at supporting the development and implementation of comprehensive training in SBIs for primary health care professionals. SBIs involve assessing a patient’s level of alcohol consumption through, for example, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), followed by provision of a brief intervention to motivate behaviour change.
Just published: Alcohol taxation policy in Kyrgyzstan 12-10-2017
This new report outlines the alcohol taxation policy in Kyrgyzstan between 2006 and 2016, and its impact on revenue and alcohol-related harm. Implementation of strong policies in the period 2012–2014 reduced the affordability of alcohol and resulted in a decline in alcohol turnover and consumption and alcohol-related harm.
Survey reveals high prevalence of NCD risk factors in Belarus 26-09-2017
In 2016, Belarus undertook its first nationwide, large-scale survey to study the prevalence of the main risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) among a representative sample of the population aged 18–69 years. Experts presented the results of the survey, known as STEPS 2016, on 29 August 2017.
Prevention and control of NCDs: a business case in Kyrgyzstan 21-09-2017
Almost 4% of Kyrgyzstan’s gross domestic product is lost due to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. These diseases and their risk factors are an increasing public health and development challenge. Cardiovascular diseases, for example, cause half of all deaths in the country.
Day 4 highlights: partnerships essential in our “multisectoral, multidimensional world” 14-09-2017
Member States enthusiastically endorsed a renewed vision for partnerships for health in the WHO European Region on the final day of the 67th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe.
Moldovan Ministry of Health convenes second policy dialogue on the evidence for strengthening alcohol control interventions 06-09-2017
On 3 August 2017, the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Moldova convened its second policy dialogue on the evidence for strengthening alcohol control interventions. It did so with technical support from the Secretariat of the Evidence-informed Policy Network (EVIPNet) Europe and the WHO Country Office in the Republic of Moldova.
WHO provides technical support for the promotion of healthy lifestyles in Turkmenistan 24-08-2017
On 20–22 July 2017, WHO provided support to Turkmenistan on the prevention of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) with a specific focus on the promotion of healthy nutrition, physical activity and the reduction of alcohol consumption.
Turning HBSC study data into action: taxing alcopops in Germany 09-08-2017
In 2003, the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study revealed a worrying trend in Germany – young people were drinking more and more. Ten percent of 13-year-olds were drinking alcohol at least once a week, as were 40% of 15-year-old boys and 25% of 15-year-old girls. This was partly due to the widespread use of alcopops, whose sales had more than tripled in 2001 alone.
Update with 2015 data - alcohol policy implementation in the European Region 21-07-2017
This report provides an update on implementation of the European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012–2020, as reported by designated national experts in 38 WHO European Region Member States, including 26 European Union countries.
European Union presidency discussions consider policy options for alcohol labelling 21-07-2017
One of the priorities of the 2017 Estonian Presidency of the Council of the European Union is the reduction of alcohol-related harm in Europe. In particular, Estonia will address cross-border alcohol policy issues, including advertising and labelling of alcoholic beverages.
Reducing premature deaths from NCDs by 45% − a bold vision discussed by NCD programme directors in Moscow 13-07-2017
More than 100 international experts on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) convened in Moscow, Russian Federation, on 8–9 June 2017. Together they discussed the feasibility of the WHO European Region exceeding the global target and reducing premature mortality from NCDs by 45% by 2030.
Alcohol and pregnancy on the agenda at the National Public Health Conference in France 11-07-2017
Professionals working in the health, social and educational sectors of public health in France met in Paris for the National Public Health Conference on 30 May to 1 June 2017. The newly established Santé publique France, which now serves as the national public health agency, organized the event.
Minister of Health of Lithuania visits WHO/Europe to discuss key priorities and collaboration 10-07-2017
On 6 July 2017, WHO Regional Director for Europe Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab welcomed Minister of Health of Lithuania Professor Aurelijus Veryga for an official visit to WHO/Europe in Copenhagen, Denmark. The visit provided an opportunity for Dr Jakab and Professor Veryga to discuss ways in which WHO/Europe can work with, in and for Lithuania in order to strengthen collaboration and implement the biennial collaborative agreement for 2016–2017.
Strong commitment in Serbia to expand screening and brief interventions on alcohol consumption 27-06-2017
Identifying individuals who drink at harmful levels and providing advice on limiting alcohol consumption – known as screening and brief intervention (SBI) – is an important policy option for health promotion and disease prevention in the European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012–2020. WHO promotes the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) to identify individuals who are drinking at harmful levels.
New report provides insights into alcohol consumption and policy in Croatia 22-06-2017
A new report, published by WHO/Europe, provides a situation analysis of alcohol consumption, alcohol-related harm and existing policy measures in Croatia. The report also explores areas that would benefit from further strengthening. The author concludes that the launch of a comprehensive alcohol strategy and a national action plan would help in combating the harms related to alcohol use, as would the establishment of some form of high-level state and independent body or council. Dr Iva Pejnović Franelić, author of the report, says: “a great deal of work has been undertaken, but there is still a long way to go to reduce the harmful use of alcohol. Multisectoral is a vital component for progress and we particularly need to pay attention to young people and support them in building and maintaining a healthy lifestyle”.
Training on the use of SBI in trauma settings held in Moscow 14-06-2017
On 29–30 May 2017, WHO/Europe, through the WHO Country Office in the Russian Federation, organized a 2-day workshop in Moscow, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, to build capacity for the use of screening and brief interventions (SBI) in trauma settings. This training was developed on the basis of a successful capacity-building workshop held in Moscow in December 2016, where SBI materials were shared with and delivered to Russian experts from primary health care settings.
Minister of Health of Montenegro visits WHO/Europe 08-06-2017
Dr Kenan Hrapović, Minister of Health of Montenegro, visited WHO/Europe on 6 June 2017 to discuss health priorities and collaboration with the Regional Office. In discussions with Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, the Minister outlined developments in the country, including the establishment of a national influenza centre and an accredited laboratory for measles and rubella surveillance; plans to extend the work of the pulmonary hospital to include diagnostic services for tuberculosis and cancer; and plans to set up a national reference library on antimicrobial resistance.
Lithuanian parliament endorses strong alcohol legislation 06-06-2017
The Lithuanian parliament, the Seimas, has voted in legislation aimed at reducing the average annual alcohol consumption of Lithuanians. This initiative is based on the cost-effective measures endorsed by ministers of health from all over the world at the 70th session of the World Health Assembly in Geneva last week. The “best buys” steps include measures regarding alcohol price, availability and marketing.
Danish campaign aims to increase the age limit for purchasing alcohol 19-05-2017
The Danish Cancer Society is orchestrating a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of the high levels of alcohol consumption among young Danes and to draw attention to teenagers’ easy access to alcoholic beverages. The upcoming report from the WHO Regional Office for Europe, “Policy in action – a tool for measuring alcohol policy implementation”, shows that Denmark has implemented very few of the recommended policy options to address the availability of alcohol. The Danish Cancer Society is therefore advocating an increase in the minimum legal purchase age, an effective means of reducing alcohol consumption and related harm among young people.
First train-the-trainer session in alcohol screening and brief interventions delivered in Uzbekistan 08-05-2017
During the last six months, the WHO Regional Office for Europe together with consultants has been developing a train-the-trainer toolkit for alcohol screening and brief interventions (SBI) in primary health care settings. SBI includes the use of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) to assess patients’ level of alcohol consumption, followed by provision of a brief intervention to encourage behaviour change.
Italy’s Alcohol Prevention Day putting the prevention of alcohol-related harm in focus 19-04-2017
Since the 1990s, the Mediterranean countries have been successfully reducing alcohol consumption and related harm. This success has been particularly prominent in Italy, where total adult per capita consumption decreased from 12.4 litres in 1990 to 7.6 litres in 2014. This decrease was significantly sharper than the WHO European Region average for the same period. The reductions in alcohol consumption in the last 2 decades are part of a broader downward trend that began in the 1970s.
Preparation meeting for the 3rd Moscow NCD training course 28-03-2017
On 22 March 2017 in Moscow, Russian Federation, WHO held a meeting with experts from the WHO Collaborating Centre on Training and Education of Health Policy-makers in Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases of the Higher School of Health Administration, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University.
New report highlights key considerations for the use of law to prevent noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the Region 24-03-2017
A new report entitled “Key considerations for the use of law to prevent noncommunicable diseases in the WHO European Region” captures the discussions from the training and provides general reflections on the use of law to prevent NCDs in the Region. It acts as a primer to demonstrate that NCD risk factors can be addressed though law.
Public health successes and missed opportunities - Russian version now online 22-03-2017
This publication describes trends in alcohol consumption and attributable mortality. It gives data by country, showing huge differences. This underlines opportunities for countries to benchmark their standing against others’ and introduce policies to reduce the burden of alcohol-attributable mortality. It also underlines the overall need to further reduce the alcohol consumption in the WHO European Region. The Russian version is now online.
Just published: "Prevention of harm caused by alcohol exposure in pregnancy", in Russian 31-01-2017
This report gives an overview of the literature on interventions to prevent alcohol exposure during pregnancy that target both pregnant and non-pregnant women, in line with policy documents in the EU and the Region. It reviews the literature on preventing alcohol exposure in pregnancy from studies published in the last decade, and present case studies from eight European countries, to share their experience.
Health inequalities and young people’s drinking in focus at the 2017 Danish national alcohol conference 31-01-2017
The Danish national alcohol conference is an annual event organized by Alcohol & Society, a nongovernmental organization with the vision of a Denmark free from alcohol-related harm. The 2017 conference was held on 24–25 January in Copenhagen, Denmark, and was attended by practitioners, researchers, nongovernmental organizations and policy-makers from different regions of the country. The overarching theme of the conference was alcohol and inequalities. People with lower socioeconomic status suffer a proportionally greater burden of alcohol-attributable mortality, making reducing the harmful use of alcohol an important goal for reducing health inequalities as well as for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Training toolkit for alcohol screening and brief intervention tested for use in the Russian Federation 11-01-2017
Recent figures indicate that alcohol consumption and alcohol-attributable harm in the Russian Federation is high, and that the burden of alcohol-attributable mortality due to cardiovascular diseases and injuries is cause for particular concern. In fact, more than half of injuries (both intentional and unintentional) in the Russian Federation are attributable to alcohol. Identifying individuals who drink at harmful levels and providing advice on limiting alcohol consumption – known as screening and brief intervention (SBI) – is an important policy option for health promotion and disease prevention in the European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012–2020. WHO promotes the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) to identify individuals who are drinking at harmful levels.
European conference to discuss progress and challenges for alcohol policy 03-01-2017
Researchers, representatives from nongovernmental organizations and policy-makers met in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on 21–23 November 2016 for the 7th European Alcohol Policy Conference. The theme of the conference was “Alcohol policy for sustainable development” and its focus was on sharing progress and discussing challenges ahead for alcohol policy. It was hosted by the Ministry of Health of Slovenia in collaboration with Eurocare (the European Alcohol Policy Alliance). In conjunction with the conference the Joint Action on Reducing Alcohol Related Harm (RARHA) and Alcohol Policy Network (APN) also organized satellite events, focusing on best practice and the role of industry in alcohol policy-making.
Regional consultation on alcohol and health 2016 02-01-2017
The WHO Regional Office for Europe organized a regional consultation on alcohol and health on 24 November 2016, in conjunction with the 7th European Alcohol Policy Conference in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The meeting focused on alcohol and pregnancy, and on trends in consumption and alcohol-attributable harm – themes of recent WHO/Europe publications.
WHO improves skills of trainers on alcohol and tobacco cessation at the primary care level in Belarus 15-12-2016
The WHO noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) project, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health of Belarus, organized a workshop on 29–30 November 2016 to train trainers involved in the education of health care specialists.
New Alcohol policy timeline database 22-11-2016
WHO/Europe is launching a new database that provides access to information on major steps taken or milestones reached in the development of policy and action to reduce alcohol-related harm in the WHO European Region from 2006 to present.
Developing training for screening and brief intervention regarding alcohol consumption in the Russian Federation 15-11-2016
Representatives from WHO Regional Office for Europe, international consultants, leading Russian experts in the field of narcology, addiction and preventionand practicing physicians from hospitals in the Moscow oblast, participated in a meeting on 17–18 October 2016 to develop training for screening and brief intervention for harmful alcohol consumption within primary health care settings.
Recent Scottish Government actions to limit alcohol intake during pregnancy 10-10-2016
In Scotland, there has been increasing recognition in recent years of the particular risks of alcohol consumption for certain sectors of the population, including pregnant women.
New publication - The main indicators of the WHO Global Monitoring Framework (GMF) on Noncommunicable Diseases 2016 04-10-2016
We are pleased to present The main indicators of the WHO Global Monitoring Framework (GMF) on Noncommunicable Diseases 2016, which exemplifies the joint effort of WHO and its Member States to offer recently available, comparable and policy-relevant NCD information.
Public health successes and missed opportunities - new report on alcohol-attributable deaths 28-09-2016
For the first time, trends in alcohol consumption and related mortality have been examined systematically for all countries in the WHO European Region for an extended period. WHO/Europe’s new report “Public health successes and missed opportunities. Trends in alcohol consumption and attributable mortality in the WHO European Region, 1990–2014” shows that over the past 25 years alcohol-attributable deaths increased by 4%.
Preventing alcohol exposure in pregnancy: examples from Member States 08-09-2016
International research shows that, in some countries, up to 82% of pregnant women continue to drink alcohol, despite the fact that there is no known safe limit for drinking during pregnancy. A new WHO/Europe publication shares case studies from countries on raising awareness and providing advice, as well as treatment options for alcohol exposure in pregnancy.
Tajikistan takes steps to join the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children research network 15-08-2016
Tajikistan welcomed the Regional Office’s suggestion of joining the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) research network and took its first step, participating in a two-day orientation workshop on 9–10 August 2016 in Dushanbe.
Strengthening national capacities on screening programmes for early detection of alcohol abuse 23-06-2016
On 23–24 May 2016, WHO/Europe, the WHO Country Office in the Republic of Moldova and the Ministry of Health organized a training-of-trainers workshop on screening programmes for early detection of alcohol abuse.
Expert advisory group to develop online train-the-trainer screening and brief interventions toolkit 17-06-2016
An expert advisory group met in Lyngby, Denmark on 10 June 2016 to review a draft train-the-trainer toolkit, which is being developed to support Member States in introducing or expanding screening and brief intervention programmes in primary health care settings.
11 countries convene in Moscow to discuss use of law for prevention of NCDs 10-06-2016
WHO considers use of law as an important policy tool for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Notably, the introduction of appropriate legislation is central to achieving the vision of a tobacco-free Europe, reducing the harmful use of alcohol and promoting healthy diets – three of the leading modifiable risk factors for NCDs.
Expert meeting to review publication on prevention of harm caused by alcohol exposure in pregnancy 24-05-2016
An expert meeting was held in Edinburgh, Scotland (United Kingdom) on 23 March 2016 to review a draft report providing an overview of the literature published in the last decade on interventions to prevent alcohol exposure during pregnancy.
New initiatives for children’s health showcased in Latvia on World Health Day 29-04-2016
To mark World Health Day 2016, the Ministry of Health of Latvia and the WHO Country Office organized a joint press conference, held on the Ministry premises and with participation from the Minister of Health, Dr Guntis Belevics.
Data validation of first study on harmful use of alcohol and tobacco in Tiraspol 29-04-2016
During a roundtable held in Tiraspol on 25–26 February 2016, representatives of central health authorities and specialists discussed the preliminary results of the first knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) study regarding the harmful use of alcohol and tobacco in Transnistria region of the Republic of Moldova.
Belarus makes progress in tobacco and alcohol control 29-04-2016
On 11–13 April 2016, Dr Lars Moeller, Programme Manager, Alcohol and Illicit Drugs at WHO/Europe, visited Belarus to discuss the country's progress in tobacco control.
Writing and reporting health news: training for journalists from Tiraspol 05-04-2016
On 24–25 March 2016, the WHO Country Office in the Republic of Moldova and a team of international media experts from Bulgaria and the United Kingdom led a 2-day training on writing and reporting health news for journalists from Tiraspol.
National conference presents new HBSC report in Poland 01-04-2016
The Polish Ministry of Health, the Institute of Mother and Child, and the WHO Country Office in Poland organized on 15 March 2016 a national conference presenting the new HBSC report "Growing up unequal: gender and socioeconomic differences in young people's health and well-being".
Informing policy for young people’s health 15-03-2016
The WHO Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study has influenced policy and legislation across the WHO European Region for over 30 years. The latest update of the study, based on a survey of over 200 000 young people in 42 countries, has been published.
Preventing cancer - The European code against cancer 04-02-2016
Cancer incidence is rising in the WHO European Region. A new edition of the European code against cancer lists 12 ways of helping people to adopt healthier lifestyles and of boosting cancer prevention across Europe. 4 February is World Cancer Day.
Slovakia to focus on public health capacity building in next 2 years 17-12-2015
Slovakia will focus in the next 2 years on assessing the national public health situation, building capacity and introducing new norms and standards for running public campaigns. This was agreed upon in a recent meeting between the national authorities and WHO in Bratislava.
Advocate General of the Court of Justice of the EU issues opinion on minimum unit pricing for alcohol products 24-09-2015
On 3 September 2015, the Advocate General of the Court of Justice of the European Union (EU) published his opinion as to the legality of minimum unit pricing under EU law.
European ministers of health adopt strategy to tackle physical inactivity in 53 WHO Member States 16-09-2015
WHO estimates indicate that, in Europe, more than one third of adults and two thirds of adolescents are insufficiently active. Worldwide, physical inactivity causes 6–10% of cases of coronary heart disease, diabetes and breast and colon cancer and 9% of premature mortality.
Reducing alcohol and tobacco consumption in Uzbekistan – intersectoral roundtable meeting 12-06-2015
An intersectoral roundtable on the reduction of tobacco and alcohol consumption in Uzbekistan took place in Tashkent on 19 May 2015.
OECD releases report on harmful alcohol use 01-06-2015
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has published a report entitled "Tackling Harmful Alcohol Use: Economics and Public Health Policy". Among the topics covered in this report are: trends in alcohol consumption, patterns of drinking, health consequences, alcohol policy responses and social disparities in drinking.
Serbia to develop a national alcohol programme 19-05-2015
In Serbia, per capita alcohol consumption for adults (15 years and older) increased by 37% from 2003–2005 (9.2 L) to 2008–2010 (12.6 L). In the WHO European Region, alcohol consumption decreased by 10% during the same period. The Government of Serbia is taking action to address the rise in alcohol consumption and invited staff from WHO/Europe to consult with representatives from the Ministry of Health and the national expert commission regarding the development of a national alcohol programme.
Expert meeting on monitoring the implementation of the European action plan to reduce harmful alcohol use 13-05-2015
The WHO European Region has the highest level of alcohol consumption. Therefore, WHO/Europe has taken a leading role in joint political action to tackle alcohol use and harm. An expert working group, consisting of representatives from Member States and other experts in the area of alcohol policy research, met in Copenhagen, Denmark on 10 April 2015.
EU committee releases report on alcohol harm 01-05-2015
On 6 March 2015, the House of Lords European Union (EU) Committee published a report entitled "A new EU Alcohol Strategy?".
Workshop on alcohol screening and brief interventions in primary care settings 01-05-2015
A workshop to strengthen capacity at the primary health care level to implement a screening programme for early detection of harmful alcohol was held in Podgorica, Montenegro, in March 2015.
Slovenian Minister of Health visits WHO/Europe 06-03-2015
Ms Milojka Kolar Celarc, Minister of Health of Slovenia, made an official visit to WHO/Europe on 6 March 2015. Building on the strong existing collaboration between WHO and Slovenia, the visit provided an opportunity for Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, to explain the functions, programmes and new focus areas of the Organization, including the WHO reform process and implementation of Health 2020, the European policy framework for health and well-being. It also enabled the Minister to meet and discuss key health issues with senior WHO staff.
Policy debate continues in Slovenia, where every 10th person practices hazardous drinking 21-01-2015
The National Institute of Public Health (NIPH) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and WHO organized the third national conference on alcohol policy in Ljubljana, on 14-15 January 2015, to highlight the need for appropriate policies to reduce the burden of hazardous and harmful alcohol consumption in Slovenia.
Lifetime-risk of alcohol-attributable mortality report published by the Canadian Centre for Addiction and Mental Health(CAMH) 07-01-2015
Lifetime Risk of Alcohol-Attributable Mortality is a report on mortality risk based on alcohol consumption levels in seven European countries, and on implications for low-risk drinking guidelines. In summary, if drinking guidelines were to be based on the usual accepted lifetime mortality risk for voluntary behaviours, the maximum alcohol consumption would be one drink a day.
High cancer burden due to overweight and obesity in most European countries 28-11-2014
A new study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), WHO’s specialized cancer agency, shows that overweight and obesity are a major risk factor for cancer: responsible for an estimated 3.6% (481 000) of all new cancer cases globally in 2012. In most countries in the WHO European Region, the percentage of new cases that can be attributed to overweight and obesity is higher than this global rate.
Reducing Alcohol Related Harm (RARHA) 14-11-2014
RARHA is a Joint Action (2014-2016) that is funded under the EU Health Programme and by EU Member States to address some commonly identified priorities to reduce levels of alcohol related harm in the EU.
Highlights of RC64 day 4 – Ebola emergency update, food and nutrition action plan adopted, and six European progress reports discussed 18-09-2014
On its final day, the 64th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (RC64) enthusiastically adopted the European Food and Nutrition Action Plan 2015–2020
Stricter alcohol control policies underway in Slovakia 29-08-2014
The Public Health Authority of the Slovak Republic organized a roundtable meeting on 2 July 2014 to address usage of alcoholic beverages in Slovakia and update the national alcohol policies endorsed in the National Action Plan for Alcohol-related Problems 2013–2020.
Fact sheet on Alcohol in the WHO European Region is published 28-08-2014
Fact sheet on Alcohol in the WHO European Region (2014) is published in English and Russian
Integrated surveillance of Noncommunicable Diseases (iNCD) 27-08-2014
The iNCD project is a first step in supporting European countries to report on progress towards reaching the goals of the Global Monitoring Framework on Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) by optimizing the use of the European Community Health Indicators Monitoring (ECHIM) framework. The monitoring frameworks track progress in the prevention and control of major NCDs - cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic lung diseases and diabetes - and their key risk factors.
Final versions of documents for RC64 now available 14-08-2014
Final versions of documents for the 64th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe are now available for download.
New global report: depression predominant cause of illness and disability among adolescents 14-05-2014
The report reveals that depression is the predominant cause of illness and disability for both boys and girls aged 10 to 19 years, so it recommends key actions to strengthen the ways countries respond to adolescents’ physical and mental health needs.
Alcohol consumption in Europe decreasing but still the highest in the world 12-05-2014
People in the WHO European Region drink almost twice the world average amount of alcohol, the latest WHO figures show. According to a new report, Global status report on alcohol and health 2014, consumption in Europe fell by 10%, from 12.2 L pure alcohol per capita in 2003–2005 to 10.9 L in 2008–2010. Nevertheless, Europe still has the highest alcohol consumption in the world. In response, some Member States are implementing effective policy measures identified by WHO, such as restricting access to retailed alcohol, raising taxes on alcohol and enforcing bans on alcohol advertising.
European status report on alcohol and health 2014 19-03-2014
In 2013, WHO/Europe published the "Status Report on Alcohol and Health in 35 European Countries 2013". Part two in this report covers policy changes in Member States in the 10 action areas of the "European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012 - 2020". These 10 sub-chapters have now been updated and cover all 53 Member States of the WHO European Region. Data are based on a survey performed in 2012.
Iceland approves policy on alcohol and drug prevention until 2020 24-02-2014
The Minister of Health of Iceland has approved an alcohol and drug prevention policy until 2020. A task force made up of representatives from several ministries will define quantifiable targets on the basis of this policy and develop a plan of action to work towards achieving them. The policy also covers the abuse of prescription drugs which can lead to addiction and dependency.
“With a sober mind!” alcohol awareness campaign launched in the Republic of Moldova 19-02-2014
Launched on 12 February 2014, the nationwide campaign aims to increase understanding of the problems caused by alcohol use. Communication activities will specifically target pregnant women and drivers.
Q&A – How can I drink alcohol safely? 10-02-2014
There is no safe level for drinking alcohol. The ideal situation is to not drink at all. Dr Lars Møller, Programme Manager, Alcohol and Illicit Drugs at WHO/Europe, dispels some misconceptions about the so-called safe level of drinking in a question and answer (Q&A) session.
Prevention is key to curb cancer burden, says new report 05-02-2014
The “World cancer report 2014”, released in the run-up to World Cancer Day, 4 February, confirms the truth of an old saying: prevention is better than cure. Based on the latest statistics on trends in cancer incidence and mortality worldwide, this new report reveals how the cancer burden is growing at an alarming pace, and emphasizes the importance of political commitment and urgent implementation of efficient prevention strategies to curb the disease.
New report: Collaborative action on tuberculosis and alcohol abuse in Estonia 09-01-2014
Estonia has the highest per capita alcohol consumption in Europe. Alcohol consumption and its associated alcohol use disorders are seen as major obstacles to increasing the treatment success achieved under the National Tuberculosis Programme. The National Institute for Health Development, the World Health Organization and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control worked jointly on a demonstration project aiming to improve treatment compliance and outcomes of tuberculosis and multidrug resistant tuberculosis patients through collaborative tuberculosis, mental health and social services.
Countries urged to reduce health risks from asbestos, second-hand smoke and toxic chemicals by 2015 16-12-2013
New publication on alcohol policies in Slovenia 22-11-2013
The National Institute of Public Health has launched the new publication: 'Alcohol in Slovenia – trends in the way of drinking, health consequences of harmful drinking, the opinion of stakeholders and suggested measures for effective alcohol policy'.
National workshop on alcohol control policies in the Republic of Moldova 21-11-2013
A national workshop was held on 15 November 2013 to review developments in controlling alcohol consumption in various countries of the WHO European Region and to discuss future steps to reduce alcohol consumption in the Republic of Moldova.
Screening for harmful alcohol use in Montenegro 16-10-2013
A roundtable meeting held in Pogorica, Montenegro in September 2013 addressed the early detection of harmful alcohol use and alcohol-related disorders. The meeting was organized jointly by the Ministry of Health and the WHO Country Office, Montenegro to support implementation of the national strategy for the prevention of alcohol abuse and alcohol-related disorders in Montenegro.
Meeting of the National Focal Points for Alcohol Policy in the WHO European Region 13-09-2013
The WHO Regional Office for Europe organized on 25 April 2013, Istanbul, Turkey, the 15th Meeting of National Focal Points for Alcohol Policy in the WHO European Region back to back to a Global Alcohol Policy Symposium. The symposium was organized by the Green Crescent Society in collaboration with the Prime Minister Office, Turkish Grand National Assembly, the Ministry of Health.
New publication: Status report on alcohol and health in 35 European countries 2013 20-06-2013
WHO/Europe has produced a new publication called "Status report on alcohol and health in 35 European countries 2013".
Lax marketing regulations contribute to obesity crisis in children 18-06-2013
WHO calls for tighter controls on the marketing to children of foods high in saturated and trans fats, free sugars and salt, in order to fight childhood obesity. Tightening restrictions on marketing is central to this fight, according to a new report from WHO/Europe: “Marketing of foods high in fat, salt and sugar to children”.
Health promotion: from Ottawa to Health 2020 10-06-2013
Health promotion is the process of enabling people to increase control over and improve their health. Experts and policy-makers from around the world meet in Helsinki, Finland on 10–14 June 2013 to review progress and ways to promote health in every sector.
8th Global Conference on Health Promotion 21-05-2013
The 8th Global Conference on Health Promotion (8GCHP) focuses on how to promote health and equity by implementing the Health in All Policies approach. It will be held in Helsinki, Finland, from 10 to 14 June 2013.
Newly published: Russian version European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012–2020 19-04-2013
The Russian version of the European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012–2020 has just been published.
Russian version of Alcohol problems in the criminal justice system: an opportunity for intervention 16-04-2013
This publication, now available in Russian, describes an integrated model of care for alcohol problems in prisoners, with elements for best practice.
WHO network meeting of National Focal Points for Alcohol Policy and Global Alcohol Policy Symposium 25-27 April 2013, Istanbul, Turkey 11-04-2013
The WHO Regional office for Europe is organizing the 15th Meeting of National Focal Points for Alcohol Policy in the WHO European Region on 25 April 2013 back to back to a Global Alcohol Policy Symposium taking place 26-27 April.
WHO/Europe in Copenhagen moving to new premises 05-04-2013
WHO/Europe’s head office, based in Copenhagen, Denmark, is moving to new premises during 22 March to 1 April 2013. All United Nations organizations in the Danish capital will come together in new premises known as UN City.
World Health Day 2013 – Reducing salt intake is key to reducing high blood pressure and stroke 04-04-2013
Reducing salt intake is one of the easiest ways to reduce high blood pressure and therefore the risks of stroke, and cardiac and kidney disease. Reducing salt intake to less than 5 g per day (the equivalent of about 1 teaspoon) reduces the risk of stroke by 23% and reduces the general rates of cardiovascular disease by 17%. The daily intake of most people in the WHO European Region is about 8–11 g, far above the recommended level.
High blood pressure: serious but often preventable 02-04-2013
High blood pressure – the focus of World Health Day 2013 – is a serious but often preventable medical condition. Diseases of the circulatory system account for nearly 50% of all deaths in the WHO European Region.
Adolescence: a unique time requiring a tailored response 25-02-2013
Adolescence is a time of great changes and challenges, often overlooked by health systems and services. Focusing on adolescent health through school health services, health promoting schools and other targeted interventions has the potential to prevent up to two thirds of deaths in young people.
Alcohol and tobacco use among young people falls in the Russian Federation 15-02-2013
Data published by WHO/Europe show a significant fall in alcohol and tobacco use by young people in the Russian Federation. The latest report from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study shows a decline in the number of 13-year-old girls who smoke at least once a week. Weekly smoking among 15-year-old boys and girls is also decreasing.
New report assesses national capacity for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases 04-02-2013
The report analyzes the survey results in the areas of NCD infrastructure, policies, surveillance and health system capacity. Offering a global overview, some results are also provided in a regional breakdown.
New publication on alcohol problems in the criminal justice system 18-01-2013
WHO/Europe has just published the publication entitled, Alcohol problems in the criminal justice system: an opportunity for intervention. This publication describes an integrated model of care for alcohol problems in prisoners, with elements for best practice.
New online tool to help reduce harmful use of alcohol in Belarus 10-12-2012
An online portal on alcohol and health developed by WHO offers an overview of relevant information for policymakers and professionals, as well as a self-help intervention programme and moderated forum for people who wish to reduce or stop drinking alcohol.
European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012–2020 28-11-2012
The European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012–2020 was endorsed by all 53 Member States in the WHO European Region in September 2011.
National conference in Slovenia identifies effective measures to reduce alcohol-related harm 21-11-2012
Following a number of regional conferences in 2012, Slovenia's Ministry of Health organized the 2nd National Conference on Alcohol on 14 November 2012 in Bled.
Monitoring framework agreed to assess progress on NCDs 12-11-2012
After three days of discussion last week, WHO Member States agreed on a global monitoring framework to prevent and control noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and chronic lung conditions.
More evidence on linkages between NCDs and SRH in Entre Nous 24-10-2012
The 75th issue of Entre Nous explores the many parallels between noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in terms of vulnerabilities and risks for and as a result of ill health, such as, poverty, inequity, social determinants of health and socio-cultural factors. This issue covers guidance in the implementation of the new European policy for health “Health 2020”.
Report on WHO/Europe’s work in 2010–2011 out now 23-10-2012
In a report on her first two years as WHO Regional Director for Europe, “What we’ve achieved together”, Zsuzsanna Jakab describes the work of WHO/Europe with Member States.
Can fiscal policies reduce noncommunicable diseases? 05-10-2012
Governments increasingly turn to fiscal policies to address risk factors – tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol and unhealthy diet – associated with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). What works? What are the challenges? What experiences do countries have?
Noncommunicable disease (NCD) policy academy – equipping policy-makers for a multisectoral approach 05-10-2012
At an international WHO training seminar , held on 24–26 September 2012 in Birštonas, Lithuania, decision-makers in health policy learned how to use fiscal policy as a strategy to prevent NCDs.
New report from Meeting of National Counterparts for Alcohol Policy in the WHO European Region 19-09-2012
A new report was recently published as an outcome of the meeting held in Warsaw, Poland on 31 May-1 June 2012. The meeting was organized jointly by WHO/Europe and the State Agency for the Prevention of Alcohol-Related Problems (PARPA).
Roundtable on prevention of harmful use of alcohol and alcohol-related disorders in Montenegro 19-09-2012
On 7 September 2012, the Ministry of Health of Montenegro and the WHO Country Office organized a roundtable to discuss Montenegro's draft strategy for prevention of harmful use of alcohol and alcohol-related disorders.
Key findings of consultation on monitoring noncommunicable diseases released 18-09-2012
As part of the development of a comprehensive global monitoring framework for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), WHO/Europe held a web-based consultation to determine European Member States’ capacity to monitor the proposed voluntary targets and global indicators.
Working across sectors - NCD policy academy in Lithuania 06-09-2012
From 24-26 September 2012, an international training seminar in Lithuania will equip health policy decision makers to bring prevention of NCDs into policies in all relevant government sectors.
Communications campaign to reduce alcohol consumption – Republic of Moldova builds on European experience 13-07-2012
Experts from United Kingdom, Poland and Estonia shared their experiences with and results of national campaigns directed toward reducing alcohol consumption at a workshop on 4 July 2012 in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova. The workshop on effective communication in preventing the harmful effects of alcohol was organized by the Ministry of Health with support from the WHO Country Office.
The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia hosts workshop on preventing alcohol-related violence in south-eastern Europe 26-06-2012
A subregional training workshop on preventing violence and alcohol-related harm was held on 19–20 June 2012 in Skopje. Based on a special module of the TEACH-VIP (Training, Educating and Advancing Collaboration in Health on Violence and Injury Prevention) curriculum developed by WHO and a network of global injury prevention experts, lectures and working groups focused on the harmful use of alcohol as an important risk factor for violence.
Nordic Baltic subregional workshop on violence prevention and alcohol related harm 31-05-2012
There were 25 participants, consisting of focal persons and experts from the 9 Nordic Baltic countries at the subregional workshop on violence prevention and alcohol related harm which was held on 9-10 May 2012, in Riga, Latvia.
Republic of Moldova adopts National Programme on Alcohol Control 23-05-2012
The Government of the Republic of Moldova has approved the National Programme on Alcohol Control for the years 2012–2020. The National Programme was developed in line with the European action plan to reduce the harmful use of alcohol 2012–2020.
Alcohol in the European Union 2012, Copenhagen, 27 March 2012 - Final report 14-05-2012
The final report of the Alcohol in the European Union 2012 conference is now released.
Alcohol: why pay attention to this issue during adolescence? 02-05-2012
HBSC fact sheet
WHO report reveals teenagers do not get a fair deal on health 02-05-2012
Widespread inequalities mean that many young people in the WHO European Region and North America are not as healthy as they could be, according to a new report on the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study, published by the WHO Regional Office for Europe.
WHO meeting of National Counterparts for Alcohol Policy in the WHO European Region 24-04-2012
The meeting is organized jointly by the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe and the State Agency for the Prevention of Alcohol-Related Problems (PARPA) and will take place in the hotel Meridien Bristol, Warsaw, Poland on 31 May-01 June 2012.
Alcohol in the European Union 2012, Copenhagen, 27 March 2012 - Conference presentations 11-04-2012
The presentations from the Alcohol in the European Union 2012 Conference are now available.
Adults in Europe consume three standard alcoholic drinks per day on average 27-03-2012
People in Europe consume more alcohol – 12.5 litres of pure alcohol equivalent per year on average – than in any other part of the world. How frequently, where and in what context alcohol is consumed influence the effect it has on health. “Alcohol in the European Union”, a new report by WHO co-sponsored by the European Commission, reveals significant subregional patterns of consumption and health effects across the European Union (EU).
WHO conference on alcohol including launch of a new WHO publication: Alcohol in the European Region – consumption, harm and policy approaches.“
Copenhagen, Denmark, 27 March 2012 22-02-2012
Hungary takes on the challenge of reducing harmful effects of alcohol 10-01-2012
Over 40 Hungarian experts participated in a workshop in Budapest on 25 November 2011 to discuss the importance of reducing the harmful effects of alcohol with a special focus on prevention, including early intervention.
Drink–driving: still a deadly seasonal cocktail 15-12-2011
Road accidents usually increase during the winter holiday season, owing to higher levels of drinking. Although all European countries have national policies on drink–driving, enforcement remains a critical issue.
Estimating the economic burden of alcohol in Slovenia 22-11-2011
Over 30 Slovenian experts participated in a two-day capacity-building workshop in Ljubljana, in October 2011, to estimate the economic burden of alcohol drinking in their country.
Experts agree on new European action plan on alcohol 06-05-2011
Countries’ experts on alcohol policy met in Zurich, Switzerland on 4–5 May 2011 to discuss the draft European alcohol action plan and a series of surveys planned on alcohol and health.
WHO meeting of National Counterparts for Alcohol Policy in the WHO European Region 04-05-2011
National Counterparts for Alcohol Policy in the WHO European Region will meet in Zurich, Switzerland 4-5 May 2011 to discuss the draft European Alcohol Action Plan, the planned surveys on alcohol and health and to exchange information between Member States on alcohol policy developments.
Global status report on alcohol and health 2011 11-02-2011
The Global status report on alcohol and health (2011) presents a comprehensive perspective on the global, regional and country consumption of alcohol, patterns of drinking, health consequences and policy responses. In addition to the global perspective, the report contains country profiles for each European Member State.