Is alcopop consumption in Switzerland associated with riskier drinking patterns and more alcohol-related problems?
Wicki M; Gmel G; Kuntsche E; Rehm J; Grichting E Department of Psychology, University of Bern, Switzerland. OBJECTIVES: To examine (a) whether consumers of alcopops compared to consumers of other alcoholic beverages but not alcopops have riskier drinking patterns and more alcohol-related consequences (e.g. truancy, scuffles, problems with parents) and (b) whether the amount of alcopops consumed is associated independently with risky drinking patterns and alcohol-related consequences over and above those associated with the amount of other alcoholic beverages consumed. SAMPLE: As part of the ESPAD international study, a cross-sectional national representative sample of 5,444 drinkers aged 13-16 years was interviewed by means of an anonymous, self-report questionnaire administered in a classroom setting. RESULTS: Earlier initiation of consumption, more frequent risky single occasion drinking (RSOD), and a higher likelihood of negative consequences for consumers than for non-consumers of
