Abstract
Aims: To highlight the importance of monitoring biases when using retail sales data to estimate population alcohol consumption.
Methods: Previously, we identified and where possible quantified sources of bias that may lead to under- or overestimation of alcohol consumption in Scotland. Here, we update findings by using more recent data and by quantifying emergent biases.
Results: Underestimation resulting from the net effect of biases on population consumption in Scotland increased from -4% in 2010 to -7% in 2013.
Conclusion: Biases that might impact on the validity and reliability of sales data when estimating population consumption should be routinely monitored and updated.
Methods: Previously, we identified and where possible quantified sources of bias that may lead to under- or overestimation of alcohol consumption in Scotland. Here, we update findings by using more recent data and by quantifying emergent biases.
Results: Underestimation resulting from the net effect of biases on population consumption in Scotland increased from -4% in 2010 to -7% in 2013.
Conclusion: Biases that might impact on the validity and reliability of sales data when estimating population consumption should be routinely monitored and updated.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 363-366 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Alcohol and Alcoholism |
Volume | 51 |
Issue number | 3 |
Early online date | 28 Sept 2015 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 May 2016 |