Finland has the highest alcohol consumption in the Nordic countries, as alcohol has become more affordable, accessible, and advertised. Excessive drinking causes harm to many Europeans, including over 5 million children living with alcohol-addicted parents and alcohol being a leading cause of death among young people. While moderate drinking may not be dangerous, there is no definitively safe level of alcohol consumption. Collective drinking culture and lack of effective policies have contributed to alcohol-related problems in Europe.

1. Test your knowledge about alcohol

2. MYTH REALITY Until 1970´s Nordic Countries were among the most abstinent in Europe . In 2011, alcohol consumption in Finland is the highest of the Nordic countries. Finns are drinking more and more, because alcohol was made cheap, more easily available and is aggressively advertised . Northern Europeans have always been heavy drinkers. Documented consumption of alcohol in 1973- 2003

4. MYTH REALITY Drinking is a harmless way of having fun. Hazardous and harmful use of alcohol is the leading cause of premature death in Europe. Drinking is associated with several infectious diseases (HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis) and contributes significantly to unintentional and intentional injuries (road traffic accidents, suicide, violence). Economic losses caused by alcohol are far greater than those caused by tobacco or illicit drugs.

5. MYTH REALITY Alcohol improves social capabilities. Alcohol temporarily removes inhibitions, but in the long run it corrodes social abilities . - Alcohol damages the brain (even more often than the liver): the majority of problems caused by alcohol are mental and behavioral disturbances.

6. MYTH REALITY Alcohol advertising does not increase alcohol consumption Advertisement increases teenagers' alcohol consumption and increases their probability to start drinking. (The European Alcohol and Health Forum). Teenagers come across alcohol ads on TV, billboards, internet, events sponsored by breweries etc.They are lured with humor, music and games.

8. MYTH REALITY Health education is a good way to influence drinking habits. According to research, education alone is not enough. It is indispensable also to control pricing, availability, and marketing of alcohol. Health education should not be abandoned, but improved. Public education campaings should: - give information about the risks of alcohol - give information of social assistance and treatment opportunities - enhance the acceptance and adoption of more effective alcohol policies

10. MYTH REALITY You can only influence your own drinking habits, but not the alcohol use of others. Drinking culture is collective. Even one person opposing uncontrolled alcohol use can make an impact to others' behaviour. Social pressure can either increase or reduce drinking.