Publications by authors named "Carolyn Falkner"
Introduction: Behaviour of alcohol drinkers during previous major public health or economic crises has varied, with reductions in use generally occurring during periods of reduced availability. This study aimed to discover the behaviour of a group of dependent drinkers of spirits during a 33-day period of complete closure of physical stores selling spirits during COVID-19 lockdown in Auckland, New Zealand, March 2020.
Methods: Electronic clinical records of drinkers waitlisted to complete an alcohol detox at the in-patient service were followed from day 1 of lockdown and outcomes at the end of the period analysed.
Aims: To investigate the current purchasing behaviours of a group of dependent drinkers and their potential response to future increases in the price of alcohol.
Methods: 115 clients undergoing medical detoxification completed an anonymous survey about their daily alcohol consumption, its cost, their response to potential price increases and strategies previously used when unable to afford alcohol.
Results: Mean and median number of standard drinks consumed per day was 24, at a median cost of $25 NZD (95%CI $22, $30).