Alcohol fills up empty spaces

Alcohol Fills Up Empty Spaces
The promotion of alcoholic drinks is one controversial subject matter among others within advertising legislation. One thing is certain, ad prohibitions are justifiable by legislation for the protection of human health and security, thereby preventing extreme consumerist behavior.
Alcohol was responsible for more than 12,000 deaths last year. The abuse of alcohol generates more health problems than those caused by the abuse of drugs. The Spanish Government has invested more than 22 million Euros to be distributed among the Autonomous Communities. This investment was aimed for the execution of projects against drugs, within which alcohol has had a major emphasis.
The Red Cross’ Foundation for Help Against Drug Addiction affirms that one third of adolescents spend about 90 percent of their money in alcoholic drinks. The consumption of such drinks has become a principal cause for juvenile deaths. It is estimated that 60 percent of deadly traffic accidents that take place at night during the weekend are due to alcohol consumption.
There have been various ad campaigns against alcohol consumption with some of the following slogans: “alcohol fills up empty spaces”, “talk with your children, information is prevention”, “drink with moderation, it is your responsibility”, and, “enjoy responsible consumption”. These initiatives represent an example of the different ways to invigorate and promote good behavior into combating abusive alcohol consumption.
Within the European Union, Ireland is the country with the highest number of alcohol consumers, while Bulgaria is the one with the least.
According to a study conducted by the University of Heidel in Germany and Standford University in the United States, alcohol consumerism affects women more than men since women develop neural paralysis at a faster pace.
Alcohol is probably one of the most vicious attacks that society has had to endure. Even though its consequences spread throughout all social classes, its main victims are adolescents: that portion of society that represents a possible hope for a better future. (Translated by Gianna A. Sanchez-Moretti).
Author and journalist Clemente Ferrer has led a distinguished career in Spain in the fields of publicity and press relations. He is currently President of the European Institute of Marketing.
clementeferrer@clementeferrer.com