The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence fights the stigma and the disease of alcoholism and other drug addictions.

NCADD News Update

For More Information, Contact: Ames Sweet, Director of Communications 212/269-7797, ext. 16

For Immediate Release: September 10, 2003

CONGRESS RECEIVES REPORTS ON UNDERAGE DRINKING, ALCOHOL ADVERTISING PRACTICES Two important reports on underage drinking and alcohol advertising practices have been submitted to Congress this week. On Wednesday, September 10, 2003, the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) delivered a report to the U.S. Congress entitled "A National Strategy to Reduce and Prevent Underage Drinking."  This landmark report reviews the best available science and identifies the most promising and effective strategies for reducing underage drinking. View the NAS press release and get information about ordering the full report at www4.nationalacademies.org/news.nsf/isbn/0309089352?OpenDocument. On Tuesday, September 9, 2003, the Advertising Practices Division of the Consumer Protection Bureau of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released its report to Congress examining: 1) the impact of liquor-branded "alcopop" advertising on underage consumers; and 2) the effectiveness of industry voluntary advertising codes in avoiding underage audiences. This report is in response to Congressional concern about youth exposure to alcohol advertising and the marketing of new products designed specifically to appeal to youth tastes. This report is available online. The Center for Science in the Public Interest has put together some background information that might be helpful, which you can reach through the following link: www.cspinet.org/booze/030904_NAS_FTC_Reports.htm ###

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc.

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