Australian drinkers’ perceptions of alcohol-related risk by consumption status

Abstract

Background: This study investigated Australian drinkers’ alcohol-related beliefs according to their alcohol risk status. The primary aims were to assess drinkers’ awareness of the association between alcohol consumption and a range of health consequences and their understanding of the degree of risk represented by their own alcohol consumption. Method: An online survey was administered to 2168 drinkers who consume alcohol at least twice per month. Respondents reported their alcohol intake levels and their beliefs relating to the relationship between alcohol and shorter-term (proximal) risks (e.g., drink-driving) and longer-term (distal) risks (e.g., stroke and cancer). Results: Just over hal..