Prevention Update

Mentor

Latest Research and News From the World of Drug Abuse Prevention

Resources

Updated manual for prevention programme planners and evaluators

Published in 13 languages, this 2nd edition updates a well used EMCDDA publication. The 'Guidelines for the Evaluation of Drug Prevention' give detailed, step-by-step advice to programme-planners, practitioners and evaluators on how to assess the different stages of drug-prevention interventions.

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Mentor has not undertaken a thorough review of the resources mentioned as to their ultimate value and worth, however we welcome reader and user feedback.

Research

Caffeinated energy drinks and alcohol linked with risky sex

Here's another research story on caffeinated energy drinks. A study of university students found an association between energy drinks, alcohol and risky sex. Students mixing energy drinks and alcohol were more likely to report casual and/or intoxicated sex. It appears that such drinkers are less aware of their true level of intoxication, more likely to crave another drink and more likely to engage in risky activities. Levels of unprotected sex were unaffected, however. The popularity of this form of drinking continues to grow and 29.3% of sexually active students reported mixing energy and alcohol drinks during the month prior to the survey.

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Research

Ecstasy: new research finds memory loss

How dangerous is ecstasy? Scientific opinion has differed on this question, but a new study suggests that memory may be impaired even after as few as ten pills in a year. Dr. Daniel Wagner from the University of Cologne has published the study in the journal Addiction. Damage was observed in the hippocampus region of the brain, a problem also associated with Alzheimer's disease.

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Policy

Russia: alcohol adverts completely banned from January 2013

We have recently described radical Russian measures to tighten alcohol marketing in media popular with young people. The State Duma has also now approved a wider law prohibiting alcohol advertising online and in printed media, plus further radical regulations such as bans on advertising near schools and on public transport. It appears that the industry is already looking at ways of getting around the laws, and commentators have warned that enforcement might prove difficult.

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Research

Mephedrone: laboratory study shows potential for addiction

Although the ill effects of mephedrone and 'bath salts' have led to various bans worldwide, the background science has been incomplete. This study using mice found that mephedrone affects the brain's reward circuits in the same manner as cocaine, underlining the drug's potential for addiction and abuse.

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News

Methamphetamine is greatest drug challenge in Southeast Asia

This report on July's UNODC regional workshop in Phnom Penh gives an overview of drug issues in SE Asia. Methamphetamine remains the greatest challenge. A new full Global SMART Report is due to be published soon.

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Research

Graphic warning labels on cigarette packs 'work better'

This study found that graphic warnings on cigarette packaging are easier to remember than text-only health warnings. The findings are not only important in helping smokers quit, but also for prevention. The labels can improve young people's perception of risk before becoming regular smokers. The authors recommend swift action by the authorities.

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