NEW RESEARCH has revealed the Pacific Islands are facing a growing problem from alcohol, with PNG renowned for its ‘culture of intoxication’.

PNG is also a major cannabis consumer, with firearms commonly seized along with drug hauls.

The research, commissioned by the Australian National Council of Drugs, says consumption patterns are an issue in PNG, threatening development, employment and prosperity.

Information provided by “key informants” supports the view that there are strong links between alcohol use, violence and injury.

The council’s executive director, Gino Vumbaca, says there are now serious flow-on effects from alcohol abuse in the Pacific region.

“We are seeing reports of alcohol-related violence and abuse. We’re seeing long-term health problems in terms of liver and heart damage. We’re also seeing intoxication proving to be a real risk for unsafe sexual practices,” Mr Vumbaca said.

He urged the Australian government to intervene and urged the alcohol industry to also exercise responsibility by providing expertise.

“There are some significant gaps on data in some of the 17 Pacific countries studied, but at least we’re starting to get a much clearer picture of the harm caused by alcohol,” Mr Vumbaca said.