But a recently released report written by representatives of both public health agencies and the alcohol industry is a first and a dramatic example of how much Big Alcohol has learned from the mistakes of Big Tobacco. By publishing it, CSAP reveals itself to be a chastened version of the substance abuse fighter that barely survived a defunding assault by the alcohol industry in Congress two years ago. Industry pressure forced open the door to cooperation and CSAP decided to switch rather than fight. The document questions everything from binge drinking to a causal relationship between alcohol and crime in a format that for the most part presents both sides equally. But I have grave concerns.
Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that has addictive possibilities.
Using alcohol is risk-taking behavior. The risks are still much greater than the pleasures and potential benefits to the heart. Others in the public health community echo these concerns and refuse to work with an offspring of the alcohol industry that calls itself a public health agency. I expect them to use every device they can to promote the use of their product. People who drink moderate quantities of alcohol think happy thoughts.