[Alcohol consumption in developing countries. Review of available data for 3 African countries]

The increasing alcohol consumption throughout the world appears to constitute an enduring public health problem. In developing countries, the consequences of such consumption should be considered as questions of both classical alcohol-linked pathology and of food balance. Available data for 3 countries in Africa (Burkina Faso, Congo, Cameroons) show an important growth in the industrial production of alcoholic beverages (mostly beer) over the last 20 years, while variation in traditional home production remains unknown. However, the lack of data on consumption does not permit a good appreciation of this problem.