Cultural influences are a dominant factor in youth attitudes about drinking and drunkenness, according to new research reported in Science Daily Sept. 23.

Researchers sponsored by the International Center for Alcohol Policies (ICAP) conducted focus groups in Brazil, China, Italy, Nigeria, Russia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. They found that the culture of extreme drinking varied depending on the country, with significantly lower rates of heavy drinking in Mediterranean countries compared with Northern Europe. Almost half of Swedish 17-year-olds report having been drunk, for example, as opposed to only 10 percent of Italian, French, and Greek teens.

Researchers also reported similarities among cultures, including the social role that drinking plays at gatherings and public venues, along with an awareness of the potential for alcohol as a tool for self-medication.

Marjana Martinic, vice president for public health at ICAP, said there is a need to change the culture of extreme drinking in some nations. "We need to look at cultures in countries like Italy and Spain where moderate drinking is an ordinary, every-day part of family life," Maritinic said.

Changing the culture would require an effort that includes all the involved parties, including governments, the public-health community, the beverage alcohol industry, the criminal justice system, and civil society, Martinic said, adding that the primary points for intervention are school, work, and community.

A new book, "Swimming with Crocodiles: The Culture of Extreme Drinking," includes data derived from the focus groups.