Publications

This survey looks at changes in health risk behaviours post-lockdown (Alert Level 1). This survey is a follow-up to the COVID-19 Alert Level 4 survey and includes information on alcohol, tobacco, gambling and mental wellbeing.

This infographic is based on a report which provides an updated overview of alcohol use in Pacific peoples and looks at drinking patterns and attitudes in various Pacific subpopulations. Pooled data from two national surveys were analysed; the Ministry of Health’s New Zealand Health Survey and our own Attitudes and Behaviour towards Alcohol Survey.

The harm caused by alcohol, tobacco and cannabis use in adolescents is substantial. In addition to increased risk of addiction, adolescent substance use can lead to accidents and injuries, medical conditions such as asthma, anxiety, depression, psychosis and impaired brain function, poor academic performance, unintended pregnancies, criminal involvement and even death.

A large number of factors affect youth drinking and subsequent alcohol-related harms; this evidence review aimed to improve understanding about three specific focus areas: age of first drink, patterns and trajectories of drinking, and parental supply of alcohol. Literature reviews looked at the link between each of the focus areas and alcohol-related harms in adolescence and adulthood.

This evidence summary provides information on how alcohol affects the fetus and mother; the level of alcohol use during pregnancy in New Zealand; and whether there are safe levels and times for consuming alcohol when pregnant.