Alcohol problems in employment: epidemiology and responses

A review is presented of evidence related to the epidemiology of alcohol-related problems in employment and of policies to prevent or curb such problems. It is concluded that, although alcohol use is associated with accidents, absenteeism and inefficiency, epidemiological data from most countries are scarce. Available evidence is so limited that estimates of the extent or cost of alcohol-related problems in the workplace are of dubious value. National responses to alcohol problems in employment have been variable. A significant proportion of relevant published evidence relates to the U.S.A. It appears that even there very few workplace initiatives have been subjected to rigorous assessment. Limited evidence suggests that Employee Assistance Programmes for problem drinkers have reduced subsequent health-care costs.