The campaign “Fii tu însuți! Nu ai nevoie de alcool!” aims to tackle the significant public health issue of alcohol consumption in Romania. Launched by the National Institute of Public Health (INSP) in partnership with public health directorates, this nationwide prevention initiative will run from May to June 2025. The goal is to raise awareness among adolescents, parents, and the general population about the harmful effects of alcohol on health and life. Through this campaign, the public is urged to recognize the risks, including the increased likelihood of developing cancers such as oral, throat, liver, colorectal, and breast cancer, as well as heart and digestive problems.

One of the campaign’s key objectives is to promote healthy choices by encouraging parents to model alcohol-free behavior. The campaign challenges parents to refrain from drinking alcohol throughout June, creating a positive example for their children. By discussing the dangers of alcohol with their children, parents can play an essential role in preventing early alcohol use and the addiction risks associated with it. The earlier the intervention, the better the chances of preventing long-term problems linked to alcohol use, particularly for adolescents who are most vulnerable to developing alcohol dependence.

Alcohol consumption remains a global issue, with over 3 million deaths annually attributed to excessive drinking. In Europe, alcohol causes nearly 1 million deaths per year, with the World Health Organization estimating that alcohol contributes to a significant portion of premature deaths and diseases. In Romania, alcohol consumption is alarmingly high, with the average person consuming over 10 liters of pure alcohol per year. The campaign seeks to reduce this by educating citizens on the broader impact of alcohol, not only on the individual but also on the community, highlighting the need for a collective effort to curb alcohol abuse.

The campaign “Fii tu însuți! Nu ai nevoie de alcool!” encourages everyone to be a part of this movement. It challenges individuals, especially parents, to help shape a healthier future by starting with themselves. By educating the youth on the dangers of alcohol and fostering a supportive home environment free of alcohol, we can invest in the well-being of future generations. The call to action is simple yet powerful: let’s raise awareness, make better choices, and promote a healthier lifestyle for everyone.

Find more from INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE SANATATE PUBLICA (Romania, May 2025)