Pink bubbles anyone? Women and alcohol and the new millennium

Abstract

Evidence in New Zealand and Australia indicates alcohol consumption is increasing among women of all ages, particularly younger women, 14–25 years and women 35–49 years. Survey data demonstrates that while heavy drinking occurs frequently in New Zealand at equivalent rates for both men and women, more harms occur to Maori people, particularly Maori women (Ministry of Health 2009). Research indicates women believe it is possible to drink at higher than recommended levels without negative health consequences (AIHW 2008; de Crespigny et al 2000). This is despite well publicised recommendations on the short and long term health risks associated with drinking alcohol (NH&MRC 2009). The risks of alcohol use are greater for women. Compared to men, women experience greater mortality at lower alcohol consumption levels. They also experience increased risk for alcohol related chronic and acute conditions (AIHW 2004). Many factors may impact on women’s drinking behaviour such as regular heavy drinking by signifi cant others, particularly partners and close female friends. There is also a changing perception of normal female alcohol use which is a function of the changing roles, social expectations and economic independence of women (Lyons & Willott 2008; Holmila & Raitasalo 2005; McEwan 2000). How do women perceive their own and other women’s alcohol use? Importantly, what factors infl uence 1) their perception of the drinking behaviours of women and 2) their perception of what constitutes problem drinking amongst themselves and other women? Increased understanding of how women’s beliefs about alcohol develop will help to fi rstly, determine appropriate interventions aimed at promoting a positive female drinking culture and secondly, facilitate the self-identifi cation of problematic drinking and need to seek help. During this presentation, we will explore a variety of research aimed at answering these questions. The impact of culture and ethnicity on changing patterns of female drinking will also be discussed.