As practitioners dedicated to improving outcomes for children, it's essential to stay informed about effective interventions and their economic viability. A recent systematic review titled Interventions to prevent alcohol use: systematic review of economic evaluations provides valuable insights into the cost-effectiveness of various alcohol prevention strategies across different age groups.
The review analyzed 69 studies, focusing on both universal and selective/indicated prevention interventions. Here's a summary of key findings and their implications for your practice:
- Cost-Saving Interventions: Universal prevention strategies, such as increasing alcohol taxes or implementing advertising bans, were frequently found to be cost-saving. These interventions not only reduce alcohol consumption but also lead to significant healthcare savings.
- Effective School-Based Programs: School-based interventions, especially when combined with parent/carer involvement, were effective in preventing alcohol use among those under 18 years. This highlights the importance of involving families in preventive efforts.
- Screening and Brief Interventions: Selective/indicated prevention interventions, which involve screening with or without brief intervention for at-risk individuals, were also found to be cost-effective. These can be integrated into school health programs to identify and support at-risk students early.
These findings underscore the importance of implementing evidence-based, cost-effective strategies to prevent alcohol use and its associated harms. For practitioners, this means advocating for and incorporating these interventions into school-based programs and other preventive efforts.
Additionally, the review highlights the need for further economic analyses, particularly in low- and middle-income countries and among specific age groups such as children, adolescents, and older adults. This presents an opportunity for practitioners to contribute to research and advocate for policies that support effective prevention strategies.
By staying informed and advocating for data-driven, cost-effective interventions, we can make a significant impact on the health and well-being of the children we serve.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Interventions to prevent alcohol use: systematic review of economic evaluations.
