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A Minute of Health with CDC
Teens and Alcohol Ads on the Radio (Youth Exposure to Alcohol Advertising on Radio --- United States, June--August 2004)
January 12, 2007

[Announcer] This podcast is presented by the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention. CDC – safer, healthier people.

[Matthew Reynolds] Ever wonder what your kids are listening to on the radio besides
the latest from Justin Timberlake or Evanescence? According to the CDC, they’re also
barraged by alcohol advertisements.

Although the legal drinking age in all states is 21, the CDC has found that about half of
all alcohol advertising heard on the radio occurs when there are a lot of underage kids
listening. In fact, one third of all alcohol ads on the radio heard by kids are broadcast in
violation of industry standards. Is there reason for concern? You bet.

According to scientific studies, increased exposure to alcohol advertising is associated
with a rise in underage drinking. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to health
problems and kills up to 4,500 youth each year.

So parents, the next time you’re screaming at the kids to turn down the stereo, you
might also talk to them about underage drinking.

Be sure to join us next week on A Minute of Health with CDC.

[Announcer] To access the most accurate and relevant health information that affects
you, your family, and your community, please visit www.cdc.gov.