A Positive Trend in Public Awareness

According to the latest survey by Santé publique France conducted in May 20171, the message "zero alcohol during pregnancy" is better understood:

• 44% of French people, compared to 25% in 2015, spontaneously state that there is no such thing as alcohol consumption without risk to the child;

• 64% of French people vs. 53% in 2015 know that a glass of wine or beer is just as dangerous as a shot of hard liquor;

• 33% of the population knows that alcohol poses risks throughout pregnancy, compared to 20% in 2015.

Furthermore, certain misconceptions are clearly on the decline:

• 21% of French people, compared to 27% in 2015, believe it is advisable to have a small glass of wine occasionally during pregnancy.

There has also been a shift in social attitudes toward alcohol consumption during pregnancy: 75% of French people say they are shocked by this behavior, compared to just 69% in 2015. The harmful effects of alcohol on a child’s health—such as growth delays, physical abnormalities, and memory disorders—are also better understood.

"More than a third of French people believe there is a risk to the baby starting with the very first drink of alcohol, compared to less than a quarter in 2015. These data show greater awareness of the ‘zero alcohol during pregnancy’ message and encourage us to continue our efforts in information and education," emphasizes Prof. François Bourdillon, Director General of Santé publique France

"Zero alcohol during pregnancy": a message that remains relevant

The communication campaign launched two years ago by Santé publique France appears to have borne fruit, as this precautionary principle is becoming increasingly well understood. However, a portion of the population still downplays the dangers of low or occasional alcohol consumption for pregnant women. Santé publique France is deploying a broad digital campaign to strengthen awareness and promote the "zero alcohol during pregnancy" mindset:

• An influencer campaign featuring bloggers and several celebrities who are parents or expecting to become parents (Arnaud Tsamère, Hapsatou Sy, Laëtitia Milot, Tanya Saint Val, Lynnsha, and Vérino) kicks off on September 9 with the publication of about forty posts and will continue throughout the month of September.

• A banner campaign on the web and mobile devices.

At the same time, posters and leaflets, available in healthcare professionals’ waiting rooms, remind people of the precautionary principle of “zero alcohol during pregnancy” and encourage pregnant women to turn to healthcare professionals if needed.

Alcool Info Service to answer all questions

Women with questions about alcohol consumption during pregnancy can turn to the Alcool Info Service remote assistance program (phone and internet). It offers them 7 days a week:

• support and guidance from healthcare professionals experienced in this field.

• An "Alcohol & Pregnancy" section on the website alcool-info-service.fr, which provides clear, easy-to-understand recommendations and practical help through articles and educational videos in case of difficulties.

• A directory to help you find the nearest specialized support center: http://www.alcool-info-service.fr/alcool-et-vous/alcool-grossesse/accueil