World Health Organization Project on Community Response to Alcohol-Related Problems: Background Document. Observational Studies into Alcohol-Related Problems

摘要

An annex to the World Health Organization Study of Community Responses to Alcohol-Related Problems Final Report (Phase I) is presented. This document was prepared to provide the Advisory Group, and local collaborators in Zambia, Mexico, and Scotland with an introduction to both the strengths and shortcomings of observational research in the study of community responses to alcohol and alcohol-related problems. Only a few of the most important controversies, specifically those that have been addressed by the Advisory Group, are examined. It is noted, however, that these guidelines should be sufficient as a basis for training, and for the preparation of a specialized handbook on observations and reporting for use in each of the local study sites. Summaries of the research and findings in Scotland, Zambia, and Mexico are provided.