Combating Alcohol Addiction in Latin America: Insights from Eric Siervo
It really does take having it on the agenda locally, where everybody looks up and recognizes this is an issue and we're going to work on it collectively.
Alcohol is woven into the fabric of Latin American culture, but its detrimental effects are significant. In this episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction', Dr. Roneet Lev chats with Eric Siervo, Vice President of International Programs at CADCA. With over a decade of experience, Eric has been pivotal in establishing community coalitions to tackle alcohol addiction across Latin America.
They discuss the complex challenges and innovative strategies employed by CADCA in countries like Peru, Brazil, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic. Eric sheds light on the increased alcohol consumption among Latin youth during the pandemic and the critical role of community involvement in addressing these issues. He also touches on the problem of home-brewed alcohol and illegal production, sharing success stories of local coalitions.
Additionally, they delve into dram shop liability laws that hold establishments accountable for serving alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons. This episode offers a deep dive into the multifaceted approach needed to combat alcohol addiction and its health repercussions in Latin America.