Challenges in an Affluent Society: Trends in alcohol consumption, alcohol related harms and alcohol policy: Norway 1990 – 2010

摘要

Over the past two decades recorded alcohol sales in Norway have increased by almost 50%. Although control policy measures are somewhat weakened over this period, the increase should also be viewed in light of the significant increase in purchase power, implying that alcohol has become relatively cheaper for the consumers. Most of the increase in alcohol sales is due to the more than doubled sales of wine, and the possible importance of wine journalism and bag-in-box wine is discussed in this respect. Despite the significant increase in consumption indicators of alcohol related harms do not show consistently increasing trends. Several possible explanations for this are discussed. Finally the current status of policy initiatives, the public opinion and some future challenges are outlined.