Local Action to Limit Harm

Abstract

A good deal can be done at a local level to prevent alcohol-related problems and to limit the harm incurred. Prevention work may be classified as primary, secondary or tertiary. In the context of alcohol-related harm, primary prevention is focused on people who have not yet experienced such harm, usually children or young adults. Secondary prevention is concerned with the drinking population, many of whom will have experienced transient or reversible harm, which may range from an inconvenient hangover to a driving disqualification. Tertiary prevention focuses on identified problem drinkers who have suffered appreciable harm and for whom the aim is to limit further damage.