The update of the limits for low risk alcohol consumption. An opportunity for implementing strategies for early intervention and brief interventions in Spain

Abstract

This work places in context Spain’s recent update of the defined limits for low risk alcohol consumption to 20g/day for men and 10g/day for women, and summarises data on the impact on individual health and the social costs of alcohol consumption. Furthermore, it considers the challenges that arise related to awareness of the risks of alcohol consumption, in the general population and among health professionals. The paper also reviews the implications of the new definitions in relation to the most effective policies for reducing alcohol-related harm. It looks at this from a public health perspective with particular emphasis on how to seize the opportunity to better promote the implementation of strategies for early identification and brief interventions in primary care in this country.