Home> Press releases >Drinkaware response to the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health research about light drinking during pregnancy

Drinkaware response to the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health research about light drinking during pregnancy

07 Oct 2010

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Commenting on the research released today by the Journal of epidemiology and community health about light drinking during pregnancy, Chris Sorek, Chief Executive of alcohol awareness charity, Drinkaware, says:

 

“Despite these findings, it is important to remember that ‘light drinking’ can mean different things to different people.  There is a risk that if pregnant women take this research as a green light to drink a small amount, they could become complacent, drink more than they think they are and inadvertently cause harm to their unborn child. 

 

“Up and down the country, people find it difficult to keep track of how much they’re drinking.  Excessive drinking during pregnancy can carry serious consequences and lifelong damage to children and should be avoided. 

 

“Women should familiarise themselves with the NICE guidance on drinking alcohol during pregnancy which says:

  • Pregnant women and women planning to become pregnant should be advised to avoid drinking alcohol in the first 3 months of pregnancy
  • Women should be advised that if they choose to drink alcohol while they are pregnant they should drink no more than 1-2 units once or twice a week
  • Women should be advised not get to drunk or binge drink (drinking more than 7.5 units of alcohol on a single occasion) while they are pregnant because this can harm their unborn baby.

For more tips and advice on alcohol and pregnancy visit www.drinkaware.co.uk/alcohol-and-you/pregnancy.  To understand more about the number of units in popular drinks visit the Drinkaware online unit calculator and drink diary at www.drinkaware.co.uk/tips-and-tools/drink-diary/”

 

 

 

Ends

For more information please contact:

Laura Ellis

Communications Officer

Email: lellis@drinkaware.co.uk 

Tel:      02077669914   

Mob:   07917135436

 

Notes to Editors:

  • *Drinkaware advises men to stay within the recommended guidelines of 3-4 units of alcohol per day (equivalent of a pint and a half of lager) and women to stay within 2-3 units per day (equivalent of a 175ml glass of wine).
  • Drinkaware provides consumers with information to make informed decisions about the effects of alcohol on their lives and lifestyles. Our public education programmes, grants, expert information, and resources help create awareness and effect positive change. An independent charity established in 2007, Drinkaware works alongside the medical profession, the alcohol industry and government to achieve its goals.  For further information visit www.drinkaware.co.uk 
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