AWARENESS of the EFFECTS of Alcohol Use During PREGNANCY and Fetal Alcohol
Syndrome.
RESULTS OF A NATIONAL SURVEY
Prepared for: Health Canada
Prepared by: Environics Research Group Limited
January, 2000
PN4568
FINAL REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS |
1.0 |
INTRODUCTION |
2.0 |
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS |
3.0 |
BEHAVIOURS TO INCREASE LIKELIHOOD OF HAVING
HEALTHY BABY |
|
A. Top-of-Mind Awareness of Behaviours |
|
B. Assessing the Importance of Specific Actions |
|
|
4.0 |
EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL USE DURING PREGNANCY |
|
A. Beliefs about the Effects of alcohol Use |
|
B. Beliefs about the Effects of Specific Amounts of
alcohol |
|
|
5.0 |
RECALL OF INFORMATION ABOUT THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
USE |
6.0 |
AWARENESS OF FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME AND FETAL
ALCOHOL EFFECTS |
|
A. Awareness of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome |
|
B. Awareness of Fetal Alcohol Effects |
|
|
7.0 |
INFORMATION SOURCES |
8.0 |
SUPPORT FOR INITIATIVES TO PROVIDE INFORMATION
ABOUT THE RISKS OF |
|
|
9.0 |
WOMEN AND THEIR PARTNERS |
|
A. alcohol Use During Pregnancy |
|
B. Influence of Partner on alcohol Use During Pregnancy |
|
|
10.0 |
MEN AND THEIR PARTNERS |
11.0 |
COMMUNICATIONS IMPLICATIONS |
|
APPENDICES |
Survey Methods
English Questionnaire (with marginals)
1.0 INTRODUCTION
In November 1999, Environics Research Group Limited was retained by Health
Canada to conduct a benchmark survey of key population segments, to measure
knowledge of the effects of alcohol use during pregnancy and awareness
of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) and Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE). The population
segments included women, aged 18 to 40, and partners of women, aged 18
to 40. This age group represents women in their child-bearing years, and
partners of women in this age group, who would be the key target groups
of a campaign to raise awareness and knowledge of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
Environics conducted a nation-wide survey of 1,205 respondents, including
902 women and 303 men. The margin of error for the sample of women is
±3.3 percentage points, 19 times in 20; the margin of error for
the sample of men is ±5.8 percentage points. The survey was conducted
between November 26 and December 9, 1999.
The survey examined knowledge and beliefs about alcohol use during pregnancy,
awareness of FAS and FAE, recall of information and preference for information
sources about the impact of alcohol, support for public information initiatives,
and the expected behaviours of women and partners of women, during pregnancy.
This report presents the findings of the survey and recommendations
regarding directions for communications initiatives. The survey methods
and the English questionnaireused in the survey is appended to this report.
Statistical tables are presented under separate cover.
2.0 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
The major findings of the survey are:
- There is a high level of knowledge that alcohol use during pregnancy
is harmful to the child, and the more consumption the more harmful and
likely the effects, but there is confusion about the safety of "small
amounts" of alcohol.
- There is high awareness of FAS and FAE - most respondents have heard
of the terms - but there is little knowledge of what these are.
- Most women say they would stop or cut back alcohol use if they were
to become pregnant. The effect of male partners is apparent on "positive"
side - women are most receptive to support and encouragement from their
spouses to stop or cut back.
- Almost three-quarters of respondents recall seeing information about
the effects of alcohol use on a child during pregnancy; almost half
say a doctor's office would be their best source of information about
the topic.
- There is substantial public support for initiatives to inform about
the risks of alcohol use, including government-sponsored advertising,
warning messages on alcohol advertising, warning labels on alcohol products,
and others.
- Men in general are somewhat more likely than women to think that alcohol
use during pregnancy is safe.
- Women with lower levels of education are somewhat less knowledgeable
about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy than those with higher
levels of education.
- Quebec women are significantly more likely than women outside Quebec
to think that alcohol use during pregnancy is safe.
- Women who have greater alcohol consumption (as measured by number
of drinks per week) are more likely than those who drink less to think
that alcohol consumption during pregnancy is safe.
A detailed summary of findings is as follows:
- When asked, in an open-ended question, to name important things that
women can do to increase the likelihood of having a healthy baby, majorities
of respondents mention good nutrition (75%), cutting down on or stopping
smoking (63%) and cutting down on or stopping alcohol use (52%). One-quarter
(25%) mention increasing or maintaining physical activity. About one
in ten each mention cutting down on or stopping drug use (14%) and visiting
a doctor or health professional (11%). Much smaller proportions mention
other behaviours.
- When asked specifically about the importance of a number of behaviours,
majorities say cutting down on or stopping smoking (63%), cutting down
on or stopping using alcohol (60%) and eating nutritious food (54%)
are one of the most important things that pregnant women might do to
increase the likelihood that their baby will be born healthy. Significant
minorities also say the same of visiting a doctor or health professional
regularly (42%) and avoiding second-hand smoke (36%). Much smaller proportions
place the same degree of importance on avoiding environmental pollution
(22%), avoiding stressful situations (19%) and reducing strenuous physical
activity (12%).
- There is unanimous belief that the more alcohol a pregnant woman drinks,
the more likely that the baby will be harmed (98%) and that the more
alcohol a pregnant woman drinks, the more harm that may be done to the
baby (98%). There is less belief, although still at a majority level,
that any alcohol consumption during pregnancy can harm the
baby (66%). A slight majority, however, believe that a small amount
of alcohol use during pregnancy can usually be considered safe (51%).
Much smaller proportions believe that alcohol use before a pregnancy
begins can harm a baby, even if a woman stops alcohol use during the
pregnancy (39%), that a small amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy
would never lead to serious harm to the baby (30%) and that a moderate
amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy can usually be considered
safe (25%).
- There is almost unanimous belief that alcohol use during pregnancy
can lead to life-long disabilities in a child (89%). Similarly, most
(82%) do not believe that the effects of alcohol use on a child disappear
as the child grows older.
- When asked about specific amounts of alcohol consumption in terms
of its effect on a baby that is born, seven in ten each think that it
is not at all safe for a pregnant woman to drink one alcoholic drink
each day during the pregnancy (69%) or three or four alcoholic drinks
each weekend during the pregnancy (68%). However, opinion is divided
on the use of smaller amounts of alcohol, such as drinking two alcoholic
drinks on two or three different occasions during the pregnancy (47%
say this is safe; 52% say this is unsafe) or a total of one or two alcoholic
drinks during the pregnancy (65% say this is safe; 34% say this is unsafe).
- Seven in ten respondents (72%) recall seeing information about the
effects of alcohol use on a baby during pregnancy. Among those who recall
information, the largest proportions say they saw this information in
brochures/pamphlets (33%) and media programs/articles in newspapers/
magazines (33%). Smaller numbers mention television advertising (24%),
a doctor or health care professional (20%), books (15%), a poster (12%),
magazine advertising (11%), infant care groups/ classes (6%), school/special
classes such as CPR (6%) and personal experience/word of mouth (5%).
- Seven in ten respondents (71%) report awareness of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome,
but detailed knowledge of what FAS actually involves is much more limited.
The largest proportion of these say Fetal Alcohol Syndrome refers to
the effects of alcohol on a fetus (34%). Smaller numbers mention that
the baby is addicted to alcohol/experiences withdrawal (22%), harmful/ill
effects in general (13%), delayed development (11%), physical disorders
(11%), learning disabilities (10%), birth defects/deformities (10%),
brain damage (9%), mental disorders (8%), cranial/ facial deformities
(8%), lower I.Q./retardation (7%), behavioural problems (7%) and low
birth weight (5%).
- Fewer respondents (56%), express awareness of Fetal Alcohol Effects,
but detailed knowledge is much more limited. Among those who express
awareness, the most common descriptions are physical disorders (17%),
baby addicted to alcohol/experiences withdrawal (14%), learning disabilities
(14%), brain damage (10%) and delayed development (10%). Fewer mention
lower I.Q./ retardation/Down's Syndrome (8%), effect of alcohol on fetus
(8%), cranial/facial deformities (8%), mental disorders (7%), behavioural
problems (7%), low birth weight (6%), Attention Deficit Disorder/hyperactivity
(6%), psychological/emotional problems (6%), birth defects (6%), unhealthy
child (5%), growth problems (5%) and fetal/infant organ/respiratory
damage (5%).
- The largest number of respondents (47%) say a doctor or doctor's office
would be the best source of information about Fetal Alcohol
Syndrome and about the effects of alcohol use during pregnancy. Much
smaller proportions would first look to books or magazines (10%), health
clinics/hospitals (9%), TV programs or advertisements (8%), Internet
sources (5%) and Health Canada/ flyers and pamphlets (4%).
- When asked an open-ended question about other good sources
of information on this topic, the largest proportion mention books or
magazines (28%), followed by a doctor or doctor's office (21%), health
clinics/hospitals (18%), Internet sources (18%), TV programs (12%),
Health Canada/flyers and pamphlets (7%), public health organizations/programs
(7%), library (6%), newspapers (5%) and pre-natal class (5%).
- Overwhelming numbers of 78 percent or more are supportive overall
of a number of initiatives to provide information about the risks of
alcohol use during pregnancy.
- Large majorities of respondents strongly approve of government-sponsored
advertising describing the effects and warning about the risks of alcohol
use during pregnancy (78%), requiring messages on alcohol advertising
warning about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy (73%) and requiring
labels on alcohol products warning about the risks of alcohol use during
pregnancy (66%). A smaller number, but still a majority, strongly approve
of requiring signs in bars and clubs warning about the risks of alcohol
use during pregnancy (55%). Less than a majority (40%) strongly approve
of requiring signs in restaurants warning about the risks of alcohol
use during pregnancy.
- Six in ten women (62%) say they would stop alcohol use if they were
to become pregnant. Another 11 percent say they would cut back on their
alcohol use. Only four percent say they would not change their alcohol
use. A total of 23 percent say they don't use alcohol now.
- Women are most likely to say they would lower their alcohol use during
their pregnancy if their spouse or partner encouraged them to stop or
cut back their alcohol use during their pregnancy (39%). The same number
(39%) say this would not affect their alcohol use. Majorities of women
say they would not be affected one way or the other by other actions
on the part of their partners, including their partner continuing to
drink during their pregnancy (69% say this would have no effect on their
use of alcohol), offering them a drink during their pregnancy (61%),
or stopping drinking during their pregnancy (57%). Almost no women say
they would be more likely to drink alcohol, even if their spouse were
to offer it to them or continue to drink themselves.
- Seven in ten men (71%) say they would be very likely to encourage
their pregnant spouse or partner to stop or cut back on her alcohol
use during the pregnancy. Men are much less likely to say they would
stop drinking alcohol themselves during their partner's pregnancy.
- Quebec women differ from women outside Quebec in a number of areas;
they are less likely to mention cutting down or stopping alcohol use
as a behaviour to increase the likelihood of having a healthy baby and
are less likely to think that smaller amounts of alcohol will be harmful.
Quebecers are also less likely to recall information about the effects
of alcohol use on a baby during pregnancy and to be aware of Fetal Alcohol
Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects. Quebec women are less likely to
stop using alcohol if they become pregnant, and Quebec men are less
willing to encourage their spouse or partner to stop alcohol use during
pregnancy or to stop alcohol consumption themselves.
- Women who drink more alcohol are more likely to believe that small
amounts of alcohol consumption during pregnancy would never lead to
serious harm to the baby and are less likely to believe that any alcohol
consumption during pregnancy can harm the baby.
The detailed findings on each topic are discussed in the following sections.
3.0 BEHAVIOURS TO INCREASE LIKELIHOOD OF HAVING HEALTHY BABY
A. Top-of-Mind Awareness of Behaviours
Top-of-mind, majorities of respondents think good nutrition,
cutting down on or stopping smoking and cutting down on or stopping alcohol
use are the most important things pregnant women can do to increase their
likelihood of having a healthy baby.
Good nutrition, cutting down on or stopping smoking and cutting down
on or stopping alcohol use are seen as the most important behaviours that
pregnant women can do to increase their likelihood of having a healthy
baby.
In this open-ended question, respondents were asked to name, without
any prompting or anything suggested to them, the behaviours that they
think are important for pregnant women to increase infant health.
Top-of-mind, majorities of respondents mention good nutrition (75%),
cutting down on or stopping smoking (63%) and cutting down on or stopping
alcohol use (52%) as the most important things that pregnant women can
do to increase the likelihood that their baby will be born healthy. One-quarter
(25%) mention increasing or maintaining physical activity. About one in
ten each mention cutting down on or stopping drug use (14%) and visiting
a doctor or health professional (11%). Much smaller proportions mention
other behaviours.
Men are more likely than women to say cutting down on or stopping using
alcohol is an important thing that pregnant women can do to increase the
likelihood that their baby will be born healthy. Among women, those aged
25 to 29 and those with the lowest levels of education and income are
less likely to mention this.
Quebec women are less likely to mention cutting down on or stopping
using alcohol; Alberta women are more likely to mention this.
Behaviour to Increase Likelihood of Having a
Healthy Baby |
Top-of-mind December 1999 |
|
TOTAL |
WOMEN |
MEN |
Eat well/good nutrition/vitamins |
75 |
78 |
66 |
Cut down/stop smoking |
63 |
61 |
71 |
Cut down/stop alcohol use |
52 |
50 |
58 |
Increase/maintain exercise |
25 |
26 |
22 |
Cut down/stop drug use (marijuana, crack, heroin, etc.) |
14 |
14 |
15 |
Visit doctor/health professional |
11 |
13 |
6 |
Reduce exercise |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Avoid stress |
4 |
4 |
3 |
Avoid environmental pollution |
2 |
2 |
1 |
Take pre-natal class |
2 |
2 |
* |
Sleep well/enough |
2 |
2 |
2 |
Avoid second hand smoke |
1 |
1 |
2 |
Positive mental attitude |
1 |
1 |
* |
Talk to friends/family/social support |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Take folic acid |
1 |
2 |
* |
Learn about infant care |
* |
1 |
0 |
Other |
3 |
3 |
4 |
dk/na |
1 |
1 |
2 |
*Less than one percent Note: Multiple answers possible |
Q.1 Thinking about healthy infants and children, what, in your opinion,
are the most important things that pregnant women can do to increase the
likelihood that their baby will be born healthy?
B. Assessing the Importance of Specific Actions
Majorities say cutting down on or stopping smoking, cutting
down on or stopping using alcohol and eating nutritious food are one of
the most important things that pregnant women might do to increase the
likelihood that they will have a healthy baby.
When asked about the importance of specific actions, once again, respondents
say that cutting down on or stopping smoking, cutting down on or stopping
alcohol use and eating nutritious food are among the most important things
that pregnant women might do to increase the likelihood that they will
have a healthy baby.
Looking at strongly held opinions on this question, majorities say cutting
down on or stopping smoking (63%), cutting down on or stopping using alcohol
(60%) and eating nutritious food (54%) are one of the most important things
that pregnant women can do to increase the likelihood that their baby
will be born healthy. Significant minorities also say the same of visiting
a doctor or health professional regularly (42%) and avoiding second-hand
smoke (36%). Much smaller proportions place the same degree of importance
on avoiding environmental pollution (22%), avoiding stressful situations
(19%) and reducing strenuous physical activity (12%).
Quebec women are less likely to say that cutting down on or stopping
alcohol use is one of the most important things that pregnant women might
do to increase the likelihood that their baby will be born healthy; Alberta
women are more likely to feel this way.
Assessing the Importance of Specific Actions |
December 1999 |
|
Total |
Women |
Men |
Cut down or stop smoking |
|
|
|
One of most important |
63 |
63 |
63 |
Very important |
35 |
35 |
35 |
Less important |
2 |
2 |
2 |
Not at all important |
* |
* |
* |
dk/na |
|
|
0 |
Cut down or stop using alcohol |
|
|
|
One of most important |
60 |
61 |
57 |
Very important |
38 |
38 |
38 |
Less important |
2 |
1 |
5 |
Not at all important |
* |
* |
0 |
dk/na |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Eat nutritious food |
|
|
|
One of most important |
54 |
55 |
49 |
Very important |
46 |
44 |
50 |
Less important |
1 |
* |
1 |
Not at all important |
0 |
0 |
0 |
dk/na |
|
|
0 |
Visit a doctor or health professional on a regular
basis |
One of most important |
42 |
45 |
34 |
Very important |
54 |
52 |
59 |
Less important |
4 |
3 |
7 |
Not at all important |
|
|
0 |
dk/na |
|
|
0 |
Avoid second-hand smoke |
|
|
|
One of most important |
36 |
36 |
36 |
Very important |
54 |
54 |
53 |
Less important |
9 |
9 |
10 |
Not at all important |
* |
* |
1 |
dk/na |
|
|
|
Avoid environmental pollution |
|
|
|
One of most important |
22 |
20 |
25 |
Very important |
58 |
59 |
54 |
Less important |
19 |
18 |
19 |
Not at all important |
2 |
2 |
1 |
dk/na |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Avoid stressful situations |
|
|
|
One of most important |
19 |
19 |
17 |
Very important |
59 |
60 |
58 |
Less important |
21 |
20 |
24 |
Not at all important |
* |
1 |
* |
dk/na |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Reduce strenuous physical activity |
|
|
|
One of most important |
12 |
13 |
8 |
Very important |
41 |
41 |
43 |
Less important |
39 |
38 |
40 |
Not at all important |
7 |
6 |
9 |
dk/na |
1 |
1 |
* |
*Less than one percent
Q.2 Here are some things that pregnant women might do
to increase the likelihood that their baby will be born healthy. In your
opinion, is each of the following one of the most important things to
do, a very important thing to do, a less important thing to do or not
at all important to do?
EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL USE DURING PREGNANCY
A. Beliefs about the Effects of Alcohol Use
There is unanimous belief that the more alcohol a pregnant
women drinks the more harm this may have on the baby and that alcohol
use during pregnancy can lead to life-long disabilities in a child. However,
opinion is divided as to the impact of small amounts of alcohol.
Respondents show a high awareness that more alcohol use is harmful,
and that alcohol use can cause lifelong disabilities in a child. However,
there is a division of opinion as to the impact of small amounts of alcohol
use.
There is unanimous belief that the more alcohol a pregnant woman
drinks, the more likely that the baby will be harmed (98%) and that the
more alcohol a pregnant woman drinks, the more harm that may be done to
the baby (98%). There is less belief, although still at a majority level,
that any alcohol consumption during pregnancy can harm the baby (66%).
A slight majority, however, believe that a small amount of alcohol use
during pregnancy can usually be considered safe (51%); 46 percent disagree.
Much smaller proportions believe that alcohol use before a pregnancy
begins can harm a baby, even if a woman stops alcohol use during the pregnancy
(39%), that a small amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy would
never lead to serious harm to the baby (30%) and that a moderate amount
of alcohol consumption during pregnancy can usually be considered safe
(25%).
Men are more likely than women to believe that small or moderate amounts
of alcohol consumption during pregnancy can usually be considered safe
and that a small amount of alcohol consumption would never lead to serious
harm to the baby, and are less likely to believe that any alcohol consumption
during pregnancy can harm the baby.
Looking specifically at women, we find that younger women and those
who don't drink are less likely to think that small amounts of alcohol
consumption during pregnancy can usually be considered safe. Those with
a university education and those who don't drink are less likely to think
that a moderate amount of alcohol consumption is safe. Those aged 18 to
24, those with higher levels of education and those who are not mothers
are less likely to think that a small amount of alcohol consumption during
pregnancy would never lead to serious harm to the baby. Those aged 18
to 29 and those who don't drink are more likely to believe that any alcohol
consumption during pregnancy can harm the baby. Women who drink are less
likely to believe that any consumption can be harmful.
Quebec women are more likely to believe that small or moderate amounts
of alcohol consumption during pregnancy can usually be considered safe;
women in Atlantic Canada are less likely to believe either of these two
statements. Quebec women are also more likely to think a small amount
of alcohol consumption during pregnancy would never lead to serious harm
to the baby; women from Atlantic Canada and Alberta are less likely to
agree with this view. Quebec women are less likely to believe that any
alcohol consumption during pregnancy can harm the baby; women from Atlantic
Canada and Alberta are more likely to believe this statement.
There is almost unanimous belief that alcohol use during pregnancy can
lead to life-long disabilities in a child (89%). Similarly, most (82%)
do not believe that the effects of alcohol use on a child usually disappear
as the child grows older.
Less educated women are less likely to disagree that most of the effects
of alcohol use on a child usually disappear as the child grows older.
Quebec women are less likely than other Canadian women to believe that
alcohol use during pregnancy can lead to life-long disabilities in a child;
Western Canadian women are more likely to agree with this view. Quebec
women are also less likely to disagree that most of the effects of alcohol
use on a child usually disappear as the child grows older; Western Ca-nadian
women are more inclined to disagree with this view.
Beliefs about the Effects of alcohol Use |
December 1999 |
|
TOTAL |
|
WOMEN |
|
MEN |
The more alcohol a pregnant woman drinks,the
more likely that the baby will be harmed. |
|
|
|
|
True |
98 |
|
98 |
|
99 |
Not true |
1 |
|
1 |
|
1 |
dk/na |
* |
|
* |
|
0 |
The more alcohol a pregnant woman drinks,the
more harm may be done to the baby. |
|
|
|
|
True |
98 |
|
98 |
|
97 |
Not true |
2 |
|
2 |
|
3 |
dk/na |
* |
|
* |
|
1 |
|
|
|
alcohol use during pregnancy can lead to life-long disabilities
in a child. |
|
|
|
|
|
True |
89 |
|
89 |
|
87 |
Not true |
8 |
|
8 |
|
9 |
dk/na |
3 |
|
3 |
|
4 |
Any alcohol consumption during pregnancy
can harm the baby. |
True |
66 |
|
68 |
|
59 |
Not true |
33 |
|
31 |
|
40 |
dk/na |
1 |
|
1 |
|
1 |
|
A small amount of alcohol use during pregnancy can usually be
considered safe. |
|
|
|
|
|
True |
51 |
|
49 |
|
57 |
Not true |
46 |
|
49 |
|
40 |
dk/na |
2 |
|
2 |
|
3 |
alcohol use before a pregnancy begins can harm a
baby, even if a woman stops alcohol use during the pregnancy. |
True |
39 |
|
39 |
|
37 |
Not true |
53 |
|
53 |
|
54 |
dk/na |
8 |
|
8 |
|
9 |
|
|
|
A small amount of alcohol consumption
during pregnancy would never lead to serious harm to the baby. |
|
|
|
|
True |
30 |
|
28 |
|
35 |
Not true |
66 |
|
68 |
|
59 |
dk/na |
4 |
|
4 |
|
6 |
|
|
|
A moderate amount of alcohol consumption
during pregnancy can usually be considered safe. |
|
|
|
|
True |
25 |
|
23 |
|
30 |
Not true |
73 |
|
75 |
|
68 |
dk/na |
2 |
|
2 |
|
2 |
|
|
|
Most of the effects of alcohol use on a child usually disappear
as the child grows older. |
|
|
|
|
|
True |
9 |
|
8 |
|
9 |
Not true |
82 |
|
82 |
|
80 |
dk/na |
10 |
|
9 |
|
10 |
*Less than one percent
Q.3 Please tell me if you think each of the following
statements about alcohol use during pregnancy and its effect on a baby
that is born is true or is not true?
Q.9 Is each of the following statements true or not true?
B. Beliefs about the Effects of Specific Amounts of Alcohol
There is unanimous belief that one alcoholic drink each
day or three or four alcoholic drinks each weekend during a pregnancy
are unsafe for the baby. However, opinion is divided as to whether two
alcoholic drinks on two or three different occasions or a total of one
or two drinks during the pregnancy are safe.
When asked about specific amounts of alcohol consumption, respondents
have a high awareness about the negative effect of large amounts of alcohol
on the baby, but are again divided as to whether there are harmful effects
of smaller amounts of alcohol use.
When asked about specific amounts of alcohol consumption in terms of
its effect on a baby that is born, seven in ten respondents believe it
is not at all safe for a pregnant woman to drink one alcoholic drink each
day during the pregnancy (69%) or three or four alcoholic drinks each
weekend during the pregnancy (68%).
However, opinion is divided as to the effect of smaller amounts of alcohol,
such as drinking two alcoholic drinks on two or three different occasions
during the pregnancy (47% say this is safe; 52% say this is unsafe) or
a total of one or two alcoholic drinks during the pregnancy (65% say this
is safe; 34% say this is unsafe).
Women are much more likely than men to think that one alcoholic drink
each day during the pregnancy or three or four alcoholic drinks each weekend
during the pregnancy are not safe. It should be noted that younger women
are more likely to think all of the amounts of alcohol surveyed are not
safe. Women who drink more are less likely to think any of these amounts
of alcohol are not safe.
Quebec women are less likely to think any of these amounts of alcohol
are not safe, with the exception of one alcoholic drink each day during
the pregnancy. Alberta women are more likely to think all of the amounts
are not safe.
Beliefs about the Effects of Specific Amounts of Alcohol
During Pregnancy |
December 1999 |
|
TOTAL |
WOMEN |
MEN |
One alcoholic drink each day |
|
|
|
Very safe |
1 |
|
2 |
Somewhat safe |
6 |
4 |
10 |
Not very safe |
25 |
23 |
31 |
Not at all safe |
69 |
72 |
58 |
dk/na |
* |
* |
* |
Three or four alcoholic drinks each weekend |
|
|
Very safe |
1 |
* |
1 |
Somewhat safe |
4 |
3 |
7 |
Not very safe |
27 |
25 |
32 |
Not at all safe |
68 |
71 |
59 |
dk/na |
* |
* |
0 |
Two alcoholic drinks on two or three different occasions |
Very safe |
12 |
11 |
16 |
Somewhat safe |
35 |
34 |
38 |
Not very safe |
25 |
26 |
22 |
Not at all safe |
27 |
28 |
24 |
dk/na |
1 |
1 |
1 |
A total of one or two alcoholic drinks |
|
|
|
Very safe |
27 |
26 |
32 |
Somewhat safe |
38 |
39 |
38 |
Not very safe |
14 |
15 |
13 |
Not at all safe |
20 |
21 |
17 |
dk/na |
|
|
0 |
*Less than one percent
Q.4 In terms of its effect on a baby that is born, do
you think it would be very safe, somewhat safe, not very safe or not at
all safe for a pregnant woman to drink each of the following amounts of
alcohol?
5.0 RECALL OF INFORMATION ABOUT THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL USE
Seven in ten recall seeing information about the effects
of alcohol use on a baby during pregnancy. The largest proportion of these
have seen this information in brochures/pamphlets and media programs/articles
in newspapers or magazines.
There is significant recall of information about the effects of alcohol
use on a baby during pregnancy. Brochures/pamphlets and media programs/articles
in newspapers or magazines are the most frequently cited sources of this
information.
Seven in ten respondents (72%) recall seeing information about the effects
of alcohol use on a baby during pregnancy. Three in ten (28%) do not recall
seeing any information on this topic.
Women, especially those with higher levels of education and income and
those who are mothers, are more likely than men to recall seeing information
about the effects of alcohol use on a baby during pregnancy.
Quebec women are less likely to recall any such information - only 56
percent of Quebec women have seen any information.
Among those who recall information, the largest proportions say they
saw this information in brochures/pamphlets (33%) and media programs/articles
in newspapers/magazines (33%). Smaller numbers mention television advertising
(24%), a doctor or health care professional (20%), books (15%), a poster
(12%), magazine advertising (11%), infant care groups/classes (6%), school/special
classes such as CPR (6%) and personal experience/word of mouth (5%). Fewer
mention other information sources.
Women are more likely than men to mention brochures/pamphlets, a doctor/health
care professional, books, a poster, magazine advertising and school/special
classes. Men are more likely than women to mention media programs/articles
in newspapers/magazines and television advertising.
Recall of Information about the Effects of alcohol
Use
December 1999 |
|
TOTAL |
WOMEN |
MEN |
TOTAL SAMPLE |
|
|
|
Recall seeing any information |
|
|
|
Yes |
72 |
74 |
64 |
No |
28 |
25 |
36 |
dk/na |
* |
* |
0 |
RECALL SEEING INFORMATION |
|
|
|
Kind of information |
|
|
|
Brochure/pamphlet |
33 |
34 |
27 |
Media programs/articles |
|
|
|
in newspapers, magazines |
33 |
31 |
38 |
Television advertising |
24 |
23 |
28 |
Doctor/health care professional |
20 |
21 |
15 |
Books |
15 |
16 |
11 |
Poster |
12 |
13 |
7 |
Magazine advertising |
11 |
12 |
7 |
School/special classes |
6 |
7 |
3 |
Infant care groups/classes |
6 |
6 |
6 |
Personal experience/word of mouth |
5 |
5 |
5 |
alcohol bottles/vendors |
4 |
4 |
3 |
Radio |
2 |
2 |
3 |
Work |
2 |
2 |
1 |
Presentation/seminar |
1 |
2 |
* |
Internet |
1 |
1 |
1 |
Other |
1 |
1 |
2 |
dk/na |
3 |
1 |
9 |
*Less than one percent Note: Multiple answers possible
Q.5a Do you recall seeing any information about the effects
of alcohol use on a baby during pregnancy?
Q.5b What kind of information was it?
When we look specifically at women, we find that the most affluent women
are more likely to mention books, and those aged 18 to 24 and those with
university education are more likely to mention school/ special classes.
Mothers are more likely to mention brochures/pamphlets and a doctor or
health care professional.
Quebec women who have seen information are less likely to mention brochures/pamphlets,
television advertising, posters and school/special classes, but are more
likely to mention books and infant care groups/ classes. Women from Western
and Atlantic Canada are more likely than others to mention television
advertising. Alberta women are more likely to mention a doctor or a health
care professional and Brit-ish Columbia women are more likely to mention
a poster and alcohol bottles or vendors.
6.0 Awareness of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects
A. Awareness of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Seven in ten report awareness of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
Of these, the largest proportion say Fetal Alcohol Syndrome refers to
the effects of alcohol on the fetus.
Respondents report a high level of awareness of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome,
but detailed knowledge of what FAS actually involves is much more limited.
Seven in ten respondents (71%) say they have heard of Fetal Alcohol
Syndrome. Three in ten (29%) say they have not.
Among those who report some awareness, the largest proportion say Fetal
Alcohol Syndrome refers generally to the effects of alcohol on a fetus
(34%). Others mention that the baby is addicted to alcohol/ experiences
withdrawal (22%), or harmful/ill effects in general (13%). Much smaller
numbers say FAS involves delayed development (11%), physical disorders
(11%), learning disabilities (10%), birth defects/ deformities (10%),
brain damage (9%), mental disorders (8%), cranial/facial deformities (8%),
lower I.Q./retardation (7%), behavioural problems (7%) and low birth weight
(5%). Fewer mention other descriptions. Fourteen percent of those who
say they are aware of FAS offer no description of it.
Women, especially the most educated and most affluent, are slightly
more likely than men to be aware of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Less educated
women are less likely to give detailed knowledge of what FAS actually
involves while more highly educated women are more likely to mention physical
disorders, delayed development, cranial/facial deformities and behavioural
problems.
Only 32 percent of Quebec women are aware of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
Atlantic Canadian women are less likely than others to have detailed knowledge
of what FAS actually involves. Quebec women who are aware are more likely
to mention that it involves a baby addicted to alcohol.
Awareness of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome |
December 1999 |
|
|
|
|
TOTAL |
WOMEN |
MEN |
TOTAL SAMPLE |
|
|
|
Heard of |
|
|
|
Yes |
71 |
72 |
68 |
No |
29 |
28 |
32 |
dk/na |
* |
* |
* |
HEARD OF FAS |
|
|
|
What is FAS? |
|
|
|
Effects of alcohol on fetus |
34 |
34 |
34 |
Baby addicted/ |
|
|
|
experiences withdrawal |
22 |
22 |
24 |
Harmful/ill effects |
13 |
13 |
12 |
Physical disorders |
11 |
11 |
13 |
Delayed development |
11 |
10 |
13 |
Learning disabilities |
10 |
11 |
6 |
Birth defects/deformities |
10 |
9 |
12 |
Brain damage |
9 |
8 |
10 |
Mental disorders |
8 |
8 |
8 |
Cranial/facial deformities |
8 |
9 |
4 |
Behavioural problems |
7 |
7 |
6 |
Lower IQ/retardation |
7 |
7 |
7 |
Low birth weight |
5 |
5 |
4 |
Attention deficit disorder |
4 |
4 |
3 |
Born with alcohol in system |
3 |
3 |
3 |
Growth problems |
2 |
2 |
1 |
Premature birth |
1 |
1 |
* |
Other |
1 |
1 |
1 |
dk/na |
14 |
13 |
15 |
* Less than one percent Note: Multiple answers possible
Q.6a Have you ever heard of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome?
Q.6b Can you tell me what Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is?
Subsample: Have heard of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
B. Awareness of Fetal Alcohol Effects
Just under six in ten respondents report awareness of Fetal
Alcohol Effects. Of these, the most common descriptions are physical disorders,
baby addicted to alcohol/experiences withdrawal, learning disabilities,
brain damage and delayed development.
Fewer respondents, but still a majority, express awareness of Fetal
Alcohol Effects. As with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, detailed knowledge of
what FAE is tends to be much more limited.
Just under six in ten respondents (56%) have heard of Fetal Alcohol
Effects. More than four in ten (43%) say they have not.
Among those who report awareness, the most common descriptions are physical
disorders (17%), baby addicted to alcohol/experiences withdrawal (14%),
learning disabilities (14%), brain damage (10%) and delayed development
(10%). Fewer mention lower I.Q./retardation/Down's Syndrome (8%), effect
of alcohol on fetus (8%), cranial/facial deformities (8%), mental disorders
(7%), behavioural problems (7%), low birth weight (6%), Attention Deficit
Disorder/ hyperactivity (6%), psychological/emotional problems (6%), birth
defects (6%), unhealthy child (5%), growth problems (5%) and fetal/infant
organ/respiratory damage (5%). Seventeen percent of those who say they
are aware offer no description.
Women, especially those who are older and better educated, are much
more likely than men to express awareness of Fetal Alcohol Effects and
to give more detailed knowledge of what Fetal Alcohol Effects involves.
Only 41 percent of Quebec women are aware of Fetal Alcohol Effects.
Quebec women who are aware are more likely to think FAE involves a baby
addicted to alcohol, birth defects and an unhealthy child, but are less
likely to mention learning disabilities and cranial/facial deformities.
Awareness of Fetal Alcohol Effects |
|
|
|
December 1999 |
|
|
|
|
TOTAL |
WOMEN |
MEN |
TOTAL SAMPLE |
|
|
|
Heard of |
|
|
|
Yes |
56 |
64 |
34 |
No |
43 |
36 |
65 |
dk/na |
* |
* |
1 |
HEARD OF FAE |
|
|
|
What are fetal alcohol effects? |
|
|
|
Physical disorders |
17 |
18 |
15 |
Baby addicted/ |
|
|
|
experiences withdrawal |
14 |
14 |
14 |
Learning disabilities |
14 |
14 |
11 |
Brain damage |
10 |
11 |
7 |
Delayed development |
10 |
12 |
0 |
Lower IQ/retardation/ |
|
|
|
Down's syndrome |
8 |
9 |
5 |
Effects of alcohol on fetus |
8 |
9 |
3 |
Cranial/facial deformities |
8 |
9 |
1 |
Mental disorders |
7 |
7 |
5 |
Behavioural problems |
7 |
6 |
7 |
Attention deficit disorder/ |
|
|
|
hyperactivity |
6 |
7 |
3 |
Low birth weight |
6 |
7 |
2 |
Psychological/emotional problems |
6 |
5 |
9 |
Birth defects |
6 |
4 |
12 |
Unhealthy child |
5 |
5 |
7 |
Fetal/infant organ/respiratory damage |
5 |
5 |
3 |
Growth problems |
5 |
4 |
9 |
Effects less than FAS |
3 |
4 |
1 |
Premature birth |
3 |
4 |
1 |
Fetus/infant mortality/SIDS |
1 |
|
2 |
Other |
3 |
3 |
4 |
dk/na |
17 |
14 |
30 |
*Less than one percent Note: Multiple answers possible
Q.7a Have you ever heard of fetal alcohol effects?
Q.7b Can you tell me what fetal alcohol effects are?
Subsample: Have heard of fetal alcohol effects
7.0 INFORMATION SOURCES
Almost half of respondents say a doctor or doctor's office
would be the best source of information about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and
about the effects of alcohol use during pregnancy.
Respondents are most likely to mention that, for them, a doctor or doctor's
office is the best source of information about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
and about the effects of alcohol use during pregnancy.
The largest number of respondents (47%) say a doctor or doctor's office
would be the best source of information for them to learn about Fetal
Alcohol Syndrome and about the effects of alcohol use during pregnancy.
Much smaller proportions would first look to books or magazines (10%),
health clinics/hospitals (9%), TV programs or advertisements (8%), Internet
sources (5%) Health Canada/flyers and pamphlets (4%). Fewer mention other
sources of information and five percent offer no opinion.
When asked about other good sources of information on this topic, the
largest proportion mention books or magazines (28%), followed by a doctor
or doctor's office (21%), health clinics/hospitals (18%), Internet sources
(18%), TV programs or advertisements (16%), library/school (9%), Health
Canada/flyers and pamphlets (7%), public health organizations/programs
(7%), newspapers (5%) and pre-natal class (5%). Fewer mention other sources
of information and nine percent offer no opinion.
Women, especially those aged 30 to 34 and those who are among the most
affluent, are slightly more likely than men to mention a doctor or doctor's
office as the best source of information about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
Men are more likely than women to mention Internet sources.
Quebec women are slightly less likely than other women to mention a
doctor or doctor's office, but are more likely to mention health clinics
or hospitals as the best source of information.
Best Sources of Information about FAS/Effects
of alcohol Use |
December 1999 |
|
BEST SOURCES |
OTHER SOURCES |
|
TOTAL |
WOMEN |
MEN |
TOTAL |
WOMEN |
MEN |
Doctor/doctor's office |
47 |
48 |
43 |
21 |
22 |
20 |
Books/magazines |
10 |
11 |
7 |
28 |
29 |
25 |
Health clinic/hospital |
9 |
9 |
10 |
18 |
18 |
18 |
TV programs/advertisements |
8 |
7 |
10 |
16 |
16 |
14 |
Internet sources |
5 |
3 |
10 |
18 |
17 |
20 |
Health Canada/flyers and pamphlets |
4 |
4 |
5 |
7 |
6 |
9 |
Public health organizations |
1 |
2 |
1 |
7 |
7 |
5 |
Library/school |
1 |
1 |
* |
9 |
10 |
8 |
Newspapers |
1 |
1 |
2 |
5 |
5 |
6 |
Pre-natal class |
1 |
1 |
1 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
Other media |
1 |
1 |
* |
3 |
3 |
5 |
Through friends/family |
1 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
Workplace |
1 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
Pharmacy/drug store |
* |
* |
0 |
3 |
3 |
2 |
alcohol bottles/vendors |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
Posters/billboards |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
3 |
Journals |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
Other |
1 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
dk/na |
5 |
5 |
4 |
9 |
8 |
10 |
*Less than one percent Note: Multiple answers possible
Q.8a What for you would be the best source of information about
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and about the effects of alcohol use during pregnancy?
Q.8b Are there any other good sources for you to find this information?
8.0 SUPPORT FOR INITATIVES TO PROVIDE INFORMATION ABOUT THE RISKS OF
alcohol USE
Overwhelming numbers of respondents approve of a number
of initiatives to provide information about the risks of alcohol use during
pregnancy.
Overwhelming numbers of 78 percent or more of respondents are supportive
overall of a number of initiatives to provide information about the risks
of alcohol use during pregnancy.
In addition, large majorities strongly approve of government-sponsored
advertising describing the effects and warning about the risks of alcohol
use during pregnancy (78%), requiring messages on alcohol advertising
warning about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy (73%) and requiring
labels on alcohol products warning about the risks of alcohol use during
pregnancy (66%). A smaller number, but still a majority, strongly approve
of requiring signs in bars and clubs warning about the risks of alcohol
use during pregnancy (55%). Less than a majority (40%) strongly approve
of requiring signs in restaurants warning about the risks of alcohol use
during pregnancy.
Women, especially those who are older, mothers, and those who drink
less, are more likely than men to strongly approve of all of the initiatives
to provide information about the risks of alcohol use. Highly educated
women are less likely to strongly approve of all of these initiatives,
the only exception being the initiative involving government-sponsored
advertising.
Atlantic Canadian women are more likely to strongly approve of most
of these initiatives. British Colum-bia women are more likely to strongly
approve of requiring signs in restaurants and in bars and clubs warning
about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy. Quebec women are less
likely to strongly approve of requiring labels on alcohol products warning
about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy.
Initiatives to Provide Information about Risks
of alcohol Use |
December 1999 |
|
TOTAL |
WOMEN |
MEN |
|
TOTAL |
WOMEN |
MEN |
Government-sponsored advertising |
|
|
|
Requiring warning signs in bars and clubs |
|
|
Strongly approve |
78 |
81 |
70 |
Strongly approve |
55 |
57 |
46 |
Somewhat approve |
19 |
17 |
25 |
Somewhat approve |
28 |
26 |
31 |
Somewhat disapprove |
2 |
2 |
2 |
Somewhat disapprove |
11 |
10 |
12 |
Strongly disapprove |
1 |
1 |
3 |
Strongly disapprove |
7 |
6 |
10 |
dk/na |
* |
* |
0 |
dk/na |
* |
* |
* |
Requiring warning messages on alcohol
advertising |
|
Requiring warning signs in restaurants |
|
Strongly approve |
73 |
76 |
62 |
Strongly approve |
40 |
42 |
33 |
Somewhat approve |
22 |
20 |
29 |
Somewhat approve |
38 |
37 |
38 |
Somewhat disapprove |
3 |
3 |
5 |
Somewhat disapprove |
14 |
13 |
16 |
Strongly disapprove |
2 |
1 |
4 |
Strongly disapprove |
8 |
7 |
12 |
dk/na |
0 |
0 |
0 |
dk/na |
* |
* |
* |
Requiring warning labels on alcohol products |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Strongly approve |
66 |
69 |
57 |
|
|
|
|
Somewhat approve |
24 |
22 |
30 |
|
|
|
|
Somewhat disapprove |
7 |
6 |
8 |
|
|
|
|
Strongly disapprove |
4 |
3 |
5 |
|
|
|
|
dk/na |
* |
* |
0 |
|
|
|
|
*Less than one percent
Q.10 Do you strongly approve, somewhat approve, somewhat
disapprove or strongly disapprove of each of the following requiring labels
on alcohol products warning about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy
... requiring signs in restaurants warning about the risks of alcohol
use during pregnancy ... requiring signs in bars and clubs warning about
the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy government-sponsored advertising
describing the effects and warning about the risks of alcohol use during
pregnancy ... requiring messages on alcohol advertising warning about
the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy?
9.0 WOMEN AND THEIR PARTNERS
A. Alcohol Use During Pregnancy
A total of 85 percent of women say they would not drink
alcohol during pregnancy.
Most women respondents say they would not consume alcohol if they were
to become pregnant.
Six in ten women (62%) say they would stop alcohol use if they were
to become pregnant and another 23 percent say they don't use alcohol now.
Another 11 percent say they would cut back on their alcohol use. Only
four percent say they would not change their alcohol use.
In the survey, a total of 48 percent of women say they are currently
pregnant (6%) or might become pregnant in the future (42%). Fully 88 percent
of women who anticipate pregnancy say they would stop consuming (70%)
or currently don't use alcohol (18%). Seventy-eight percent of women who
are now pregnant say they have stopped (46%) or do not consume alcohol
(32%).
Better educated women and those aged 18 to 24 are more likely to say
they would stop alcohol use if they were to become pregnant. However,
less educated women are more likely to say they don't drink. More affluent
women and those who drink more are more likely than others to say they
would just cut back on their alcohol use.
Quebec women are much less likely than women in other provinces to say
they would stop alcohol use, and are more likely than others to say they
would just cut back on their alcohol use.
Women: Alcohol Use During Pregnancy |
December 1999 |
|
TOTAL |
CURRENTLY |
FUTURE |
|
WOMEN |
PREGNANT |
PREGNANCY |
|
|
|
|
No change |
4 |
7 |
3 |
Cut back |
11 |
15 |
10 |
Stop |
62 |
46 |
70 |
Don't use alcohol now |
23 |
32 |
18 |
dk/na |
* |
0 |
0 |
*Less than one percent
Q.13 If you were to become pregnant, would you ... not
change your alcohol use ... cut back on your alcohol use, or ... stop
alcohol use? Subsample: Women
B. Influence of Partner on Alcohol Use During Pregnancy
Women are most likely to say they would lower their alcohol
use during their pregnancy if their spouse or partner encouraged them
to stop or cut back.
Women are more likely to say they would lower their alcohol use during
their pregnancy if encouraged by their spouse to do so. Most say they
would not be influenced one way or the other by their partners' continuing
use of alcohol or by their partner offering them a drink during their
pregnancy.
Women are most likely to say they would lower their alcohol use during
their pregnancy if their spouse or partner encouraged them to stop or
cut back their alcohol use during their pregnancy (39%). The same number
(39%) say this would not affect their alcohol use.
Majorities of women say they would not be influenced one way or the
other by other actions on the part of their partners, including their
partner continuing to drink during their pregnancy (69% say this would
have no effect on their use of alcohol), offering them a drink during
their pregnancy (61%), or stopping drinking during their pregnancy (57%).
Almost no women say they would be more likely to drink alcohol, even if
their spouse were to offer it to them or continue to drink themselves.
Women aged 18 to 24, those who are better educated and those who drink
more are more likely to be influenced by their spouse's encouragement
and by their spouse's own efforts to stop consuming alcohol.
Influence of Partner on Women's alcohol Use
During Pregnancy |
December 1999 |
|
TOTAL |
CURRENTLY |
FUTURE |
|
WOMEN |
PREGNANT |
PREGNANCY |
If your spouse/partner |
|
|
|
encouraged you to stop or |
|
|
|
cut down alcohol use |
|
|
|
More likely to drink |
7 |
8 |
4 |
Less likely to drink |
39 |
27 |
45 |
No difference |
39 |
41 |
39 |
Don't drink alcohol |
15 |
24 |
12 |
dk/na |
* |
0 |
0 |
If your spouse/partner |
|
|
|
continued to drink |
|
|
|
More likely to drink |
4 |
1 |
4 |
Less likely to drink |
16 |
11 |
17 |
No difference |
69 |
73 |
69 |
Don't drink alcohol |
12 |
16 |
9 |
dk/na |
* |
0 |
0 |
|
|
|
|
If your spouse/partner |
|
|
|
offered you alcohol |
|
|
|
More likely to drink |
3 |
8 |
3 |
Less likely to drink |
22 |
7 |
25 |
No difference |
61 |
64 |
62 |
Don't drink alcohol |
14 |
21 |
11 |
dk/na |
0 |
0 |
0 |
If your spouse/partner |
|
|
|
stopped drinking |
|
|
|
More likely to drink |
3 |
0 |
2 |
Less likely to drink |
28 |
23 |
35 |
No difference |
57 |
56 |
55 |
Don't drink alcohol |
12 |
20 |
9 |
dk/na |
* |
1 |
0 |
*Less than one percent
Q.14
Thinking about yourself, would you be more likely to drink alcohol,
less likely to drink alcohol or would it make no difference to your alcohol
use in each of the following situations ...? Subsample: Women
10.0 MEN AND THEIR PARTNERS
Seven in ten men say they would be very likely to encourage
their pregnant spouse to stop or cut back on her alcohol use during the
pregnancy. Only three in ten would be very likely to stop drinking alcohol
themselves during their partner's pregnancy.
As we saw in the previous section, women are the most likely to be influenced
by a spouse who encourages them to reduce alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Here we see that men themselves are quite willing to take on that role.
Seven in ten men (71%) say they would be very likely to encourage their
pregnant spouse or partner to stop or cut back on her alcohol use during
the pregnancy. Fewer men (30%) say they would be very likely to stop drinking
alcohol themselves during their spouse's or partner's pregnancy; 37 percent
say they would not likely stop.
Only eight percent of men say they would not be likely to encourage
their spouse to stop or cut back on alcohol use.
Quebec men are less likely to encourage their spouse to stop or cut
back on her alcohol use during pregnancy and to stop drinking themselves
during their spouse's pregnancy.
Men: Alcohol Use During Spouse's Pregnancy |
December 1999 |
|
TOTAL |
SPOUSE |
|
MEN |
MAY BECOME |
|
|
PREGNANT |
|
|
|
Encourage her to stop/cut back |
|
|
on alcohol use |
|
|
Very likely |
71 |
70 |
Somewhat likely |
8 |
7 |
Not very likely |
4 |
6 |
Not at all likely |
4 |
3 |
Spouse does not drink now |
14 |
15 |
dk/na |
|
0 |
|
|
|
Stop drinking alcohol yourself |
|
|
during her pregnancy |
|
|
Very likely |
30 |
33 |
Somewhat likely |
22 |
19 |
Not very likely |
23 |
26 |
Not at all likely |
14 |
15 |
Do not drink now |
11 |
6 |
dk/na |
1 |
1 |
*Less than one percent
Q.17 Thinking about yourself, if your spouse or partner
were to become pregnant, would you be very likely, somewhat likely, not
very likely or not at all likely to do each of the following ... ? Subsample:
Men
11.0 COMMUNICATIONS IMPLICATIONS
The survey suggests a number of directions for communications initiatives,
both in terms of content and in terms of vehicles or media to be used
in a communications or public information campaign.
In terms of content issues, it is clear that there is a widespread awareness
among the target groups examined here, that alcohol use during pregnancy
is harmful to an infant and the more alcohol is consumed, the more likely
and extensive the harm may be. The real information challenge relates
to the effects of small amounts of alcohol. Canadian women and men in
the target group are divided in their belief about the effect of small
amounts, and communication initiatives about alcohol use should be aware
of this confusion or division.
A second issue relating to content involves the generally low levels
of knowledge about FAS and FAE. Although most people claim to be aware
of these terms, it is clear from the survey that there is very little
knowledge about what these disabilities actually are and how serious they
can be. A communications campaign to inform target audiences should have
higher public knowledge of this as one of its goals. Raising awareness
of FAS will also contribute to a heightened awareness overall, of the
harmful effects of alcohol use during pregnancy.
On the topic of sources of information and appropriate media for communications
initiatives, the survey confirms the importance of health professionals
and health settings, such as clinics and hospitals, as the place where
information about the effects of alcohol use is sought. However, many
media are also important as information sources including brochures, pamphlets,
articles in magazines and newspapers, and television advertising. The
survey suggests that efforts should be made to create written materials
(brochures, pamphlets, posters) for distribution to health care providers
and settings, as well as to create materials and strategies to increase
awareness of the topic in the general media.
The importance of increasing public awareness of all aspects of this
topic in Quebec cannot be over-emphasized. The survey suggests that Quebecers'
lower levels of awareness and knowledge about the effects of alcohol use
during pregnancy can be traced in part to the general media environment.
There is a need to create and distribute much more information about this
topic within Quebec - to health professionals and particularly to health
clinics, as well as in the Quebec media in general. Governments, their
partners and the industries involved (spirits, wine, beer) should also
consider sponsoring advertising, including warnings on alcohol advertising,
and other initiatives, as part of a strategy to increase overall awareness
and knowledge of these topics in Quebec.
One other important target group is women who consume greater amounts
of alcohol. The survey shows that women who consume more on a regular
basis are less likely than other women to believe that alcohol consumption
is harmful. From the survey, women who consume more (four or more alcoholic
drinks per week) are more likely to be younger, single, or with higher
household income levels. There are no significant regional differences
in alcohol consumption. The special need for information and efforts directed
toward women who consume alcohol should be part of any communications
initiative.
The survey suggests that communications initiatives should be developed
that will be appropriate for women across a range of socio-economic and
education groups, but with a greater emphasis on women with middle-to-lower
levels of education, where knowledge and awareness levels are lower.
The survey also shows that men (spouses) have lower levels of knowledge
than women. Communications directed toward men should build knowledge
and awareness of the effects of alcohol use and should emphasize the importance
of providing support and encouragement to their spouses to stop consumption,
since the survey has shown that women, especially women who consume larger
amounts of alcohol, are most likely to be influenced by this.
The following table summarizes the target groups where the need for
information about the effects of alcohol use and FAS/FAE is higher than
average, along with appropriate settings and vehicles of communications
for each.
Summary of target groups need for information
Target Groups-
Need for Information |
Target Groups-
Communications Settings and Vehicles |
Quebec women |
- Doctors and doctor's offices
- Health clinics and hospitals
- Television and other advertising including government-sponsored
advertising, NGO sponsorship of advertising, industry-sponsored
ads, and health warnings on alcohol advertising
- Television and other media programs and articles, especially
magazines
- Any initiatives to increase awareness of the topic in Quebec
society
|
Women who consume more alcohol |
- Doctors and doctor's offices
- Television and other advertising including government-sponsored
advertising, NGO sponsorship of advertising, industry-sponsored
ads, and health warnings on alcohol advertising
- Television and other media programs, articles and sources, including
newspapers, magazines, Internet
- Settings where alcohol is consumed
|
Women with mid to lower levels of education |
- Doctors and doctor's offices
- Health clinics and hospitals
- Television advertising and programming
- Magazines
|
Men |
- Doctors and doctor's offices
- Health clinics and hospitals
- Television advertising and programming
- Parenting books and magazines
- Internet sources
|
SURVEY METHODS
The results of the survey are based on questions asked to 1,205 respondents
within the ten provinces of Canada. The survey was conducted by telephone
from November 26 to December 9, 1999.
The sample frame for this survey involved identifying households from
the general population across the country, using previous Environics survey
research, that included women who were between the ages of 18 to 40 years
of age. Random sampling among the general population of households was
used to supplement this procedure.
The sample was chosen to be slightly disproportionate to the sample
sizes of each province in order to achieve a certain minimum number for
analysis. The final results are weighted to reflect the actual proportions
in the population.
Within households, respondents were eligible to respond to this survey
if anyone in the responding household was a female between the ages of
18 and 40 or the husband or partner of a female between the ages of 18
and 40.
The survey of 1,205 included 902 women and 303 men. The margin of error
for the sample of women is ±3.3 percentage points, 19 times in
20; the margin of error for the sample of men is ±5.8 percentage
points.
The following table presents the detailed completion results for this
survey of 1,205 interviews.
|
# |
% |
Number of calls |
6,777 |
100 |
Household not eligible |
1,080 |
16 |
Non-residential/not in service |
1,604 |
24 |
Language barrier |
79 |
1 |
Subtotal |
2,763 |
41 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
New Base (6,777-2,763) |
4,014 |
100 |
|
|
|
No answer/line busy/ |
|
|
respondent not available |
1,861 |
46 |
Refusals |
930 |
23 |
Mid-interview refusals |
18 |
* |
Subtotal |
2,809 |
70 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Completions (4,014-2,809) |
1,205 |
30 |
|
|
|
Completion Rate (1,205/[4,014-1,861]) |
56 |
*Less than one percent
ENGLISH QUESTIONNAIRE with marginals
December 14, 1999
Hello, my name is _______________________ . I am calling from Environics
Research Group. We are conducting a brief survey on behalf of Health Canada
(registration number HC-005-435-9945) about some health issues facing
the country today. Please be assured that this is strictly a research
project and that I am not selling anything.
Is anyone in your household
A) a female aged between 18 and 40?
1 - Yes 2 - No
B) a husband or partner of a female aged between 18 and 40?
1 - Yes 2 - No
IF NO TO BOTH, POLITELY TERMINATE
IF YES TO A OR B, ASK TO SPEAK TO THAT PERSON, AND CONTINUE.
IF YES TO BOTH, RANDOMIZE.
REPEAT: We are conducting a survey about some important
health issues. Please be assured that we are not selling anything. Individual
answers to this survey will be kept confidential and the tabulated findings
will be used to create informational materials to help all families.
- Thinking about healthy infants and children, what, in your opinion
are the most important things that pregnant women can do to increase
the likelihood that their baby will be born healthy? What things come
to mind as important?DO NOT READ. CODE ALL THAT APPLY. FIRST
MENTION. SECOND MENTION, THIRD MENTION. Are there any others?
01 - Visit doctor/health professional |
11% |
02 - Eat well/good nutrition/vitamins |
75% |
03 - Increase exercise/physical activity |
25% |
04 - Reduce exercise/physical activity |
5% |
05 - Cut down/stop smoking |
63% |
06 - Cut down/stop alcohol use |
52% |
07 - Cut down/stop drug use (marijuana, crack, heroin, etc.) |
14% |
08 - Avoid stress |
4% |
09 - Avoid environmental pollution |
2% |
10 - Avoid second hand smoke |
1% |
11 - Positive mental attitude |
1% |
12 - Learn about infant care |
|
13 - Take pre-natal class |
2% |
14 - Talk to friends/family/social support |
1% |
15 - Other (SPECIFY) |
6% |
16 - DK/NA |
1% |
- Here are some things that pregnant women might do to increase the
likelihood that their baby will be born healthy. In your opinion, is
each of the following one of the most important things
to do, a very important thing to do, a less important thing to do or
not at all important to do?
READ AND ROTATE
a) |
Cut down or stop smoking? |
|
|
|
|
|
1 - One of the most important things to do |
63% |
|
2 - A very important thing to do |
35% |
|
3 - A less important thing to do |
2% |
|
4 - Not at all important to do |
|
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
b) |
Cut down or stop using alcohol |
|
|
|
|
|
1 - One of the most important things to do |
60% |
|
2 - A very important thing to do |
38% |
|
3 - A less important thing to do |
2% |
|
4 - Not at all important to do |
|
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
c) |
Avoid stressful situations |
|
|
|
|
|
1 - One of the most important things to do |
19% |
|
2 - A very important thing to do |
59% |
|
3 - A less important thing to do |
21% |
|
4 - Not at all important to do |
|
|
5 - DK/NA |
1% |
|
|
|
d) |
Eat nutritious food |
|
|
|
|
|
1 - One of the most important things to do |
54% |
|
2 - A very important thing to do |
46% |
|
3 - A less important thing to do |
1% |
|
4 - Not at all important to do |
|
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
e) |
Visit a doctor or health professional on a regular basis |
|
|
|
|
|
1 - One of the most important things to do |
42% |
|
2 - A very important thing to do |
54% |
|
3 - A less important thing to do |
4% |
|
4 - Not at all important to do |
|
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
f) |
Reduce strenuous physical activity |
|
|
|
|
|
1 - One of the most important things to do |
12% |
|
2 - A very important thing to do |
41% |
|
3 - A less important thing to do |
39% |
|
4 - Not at all important to do |
7% |
|
5 - DK/NA |
1% |
|
|
|
g) |
Avoid environmental pollution |
|
|
|
|
|
1 - One of the most important things to do |
22% |
|
2 - A very important thing to do |
58% |
|
3 - A less important thing to do |
19% |
|
4 - Not at all important to do |
2% |
|
5 - DK/NA |
1% |
|
Avoid second-hand smoke |
|
|
1 - One of the most important things to do |
36% |
|
2 - A very important thing to do |
54% |
|
3 - A less important thing to do |
9% |
|
4 - Not at all important to do |
* |
|
5 - DK/NA |
* |
- Please tell me if you think each of the following statements about
alcohol use during pregnancy and its effect on a baby that is born is
true or is not true?
READ AND ROTATE
a) |
A small amount of alcohol use during pregnancy can usually
be considered safe. |
|
1 - True |
51% |
|
2 - Not true |
46% |
|
3 - DK/NA |
2% |
|
|
|
b) |
The more alcohol a pregnant woman drinks,
the more likely that the baby will be harmed. |
|
|
|
|
1 - True |
98% |
|
2 - Not true |
1% |
|
3 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
c) |
The more alcohol a pregnant woman drinks,
the more harm that may be done to the baby. |
|
|
|
|
1 - True |
98% |
|
2 - Not true |
2% |
|
3 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
d) |
A moderate amount of alcohol consumption during
pregnancy can usually be considered safe. |
|
|
|
|
1 - True |
25% |
|
2 - Not true |
73% |
|
3 - DK/NA |
2% |
|
|
|
e) |
Any alcohol consumption during pregnancy can
harm the baby. |
|
|
|
|
1 - True |
66% |
|
2 - Not true |
33% |
|
3 - DK/NA |
1% |
|
|
|
f) |
alcohol use beforea pregnancy begins can harm a baby,
even if a woman stops alcohol use during the pregnancy. |
|
|
|
|
1 - True |
39% |
|
2 - Not true |
53% |
|
3 - DK/NA |
8% |
|
|
|
g) |
A small amount of alcohol consumption during
pregnancy would never lead to serious harm to the baby. |
|
|
|
|
1 - True |
30% |
|
2 - Not true |
66% |
|
3 - DK/NA |
4% |
-
In terms of its effect on a baby that is born, do you think it would
be very safe, somewhat safe, not very safe or not at all safe for
a pregnant woman to drink each of the following amounts of alcohol
a) One alcoholic drink each day during the pregnancy?
|
1 - Very safe |
1% |
|
2 - somewhat safe |
6% |
|
3 - Not very safe |
25% |
|
4 - Not at all safe |
69% |
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
b) |
Three or four alcoholic drinks each weekend
during the pregnancy? |
|
|
|
|
1 - Very safe |
1% |
|
2 - somewhat safe |
4% |
|
3 - Not very safe |
27% |
|
4 - Not at all safe |
68% |
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
c) |
Two alcoholic drinks on two or three different
occasions during the pregnancy? |
|
|
|
|
1 - Very safe |
12% |
|
2 - somewhat safe |
35% |
|
3 - Not very safe |
25% |
|
4 - Not at all safe |
27% |
|
5 - DK/NA |
1% |
|
|
|
d) |
A total of one or two alcoholic drinks during
the pregnancy? |
|
|
|
|
1 - Very safe |
27% |
|
2 - somewhat safe |
38% |
|
3 - Not very safe |
14% |
|
4 - Not at all safe |
20% |
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
5. a) Do you recall seeing any information about the effects of alcohol
use on a baby during pregnancy?
1 - Yes 2 - No 3 - DK/NA
b) What kind of information was it?
DO NOT READ. CODE ALL THAT APPLY
|
N=877 |
01 - Brochure/pamphlet |
33% |
02 - Media programs/articles in newspapers/magazines |
33% |
03 - Books |
15% |
04 - Television advertising |
24% |
05 - Magazine advertising |
11% |
06 - Infant care groups/classes |
6% |
07 - Poster |
12% |
08 - Doctor/health care professional |
20% |
09 - Radio |
2% |
10 - School/special classes, such as CPR |
6% |
11 - Personal experience/word of mouth |
5% |
12 - alcohol bottles/alcohol vendors |
4% |
13 - Work |
2% |
14 - Presentation/seminar |
1% |
15 - Internet |
1% |
16 - Other (specify) |
1% |
17 - DK/NA |
3% |
ROTATE Q.6 AND Q.7
6. a) Have you ever heard of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome?
1 - Yes 2 - No 3 - DK/NA
ASK (b) |
|
71% |
GO TO Q.7 |
|
29% |
GO TO Q.7 |
|
* |
b) Can you tell me what Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is? PROBE FOR
COMPLETE RESPONSE. What happens with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome?
|
N=859 |
01 - Effects of alcohol on fetus |
34% |
02 - Baby addicted/experiences withdrawal |
22% |
03 - Harmful/ill effects |
13% |
04 - Delayed development |
11% |
05 - Physical disorders |
11% |
06 - Learning disabilities |
10% |
07 - Causes birth defects/deformities |
10% |
08 - Brain damage |
9% |
09 - Mental disorders |
8% |
10 - Cranial/facial deformities |
8% |
11 - Lower I.Q./retardation |
7% |
12 - Behavioural problems |
7% |
13 - Low birth weight |
5% |
14 - Attention Deficit Disorder |
4% |
15 - Born with alcohol in its system |
3% |
16 - Growth problems |
2% |
17 - Premature birth |
1% |
18 - Other (63(&,)<) |
1% |
19 - DK/NA |
14% |
7. a) Have you ever heard of fetal alcohol effects?
1 - Yes 2 - No 3 - DK/NA
ASK(B) |
|
56% |
GO TO Q. 8 |
|
43% |
GO TO Q. 8 |
|
|
b) Can you tell me what fetal alcohol effects are? PROBE
|
N=678 |
01 - Physical disorders |
17% |
02 - Baby addicted/experiences withdrawal |
14% |
03 - Learning disabilities |
14% |
04 - Brain damage |
10% |
05 - Delayed development |
10% |
06 - Lower I.Q./retardation/Down's Syndrome |
8% |
07 - Effects of alcohol on fetus |
8% |
08 - Cranial/facial deformities |
8% |
09 - Mental disorders |
7% |
10 - Behavioural problems |
7% |
11 - Low birth weight |
6% |
12 - Attention Deficit Disorder/hyperactivity |
6% |
13 - Psychological/emotional problems |
6% |
14 - Birth defects |
6% |
15 - Unhealthy child |
5% |
16 - Growth problems |
5% |
17 - Fetal/infant organ/respiratory damage |
5% |
18 - Effects less than FAS |
3% |
19 - Premature birth |
3% |
20 - Fetus/infant mortality/SIDS |
1% |
21 - Other |
3% |
22 - DK/NA |
17% |
-
What for you would be the best source of information about Fetal
Alcohol Syndrome and about the effects of alcohol use during pregnancy? DO NOT READ Are there any other good sources for
you to find this information? CODE ALL THAT APPLY
01 - Doctor/doctor's office |
47% |
02 - Health clinic/hospital |
9% |
03 - Pre-natal class |
1% |
04 - Pharmacy/drug store |
|
05 - Workplace |
1% |
06 - Through friends/family |
1% |
07 - Books/magazines |
10% |
08 - Internet sources |
5% |
09 - TV programs/advertisements |
8% |
10 - Health Canada/flyers and pamphlets |
4% |
11 - Public health organizations/programs |
1% |
12 - Newspapers |
1% |
13 - Other media |
1% |
14 - Library/school |
1% |
15 - Others (SPECIFY) |
1% |
16 - DK/NA |
5% |
8 b. Are there any other good sources for you to find this information?
01 - Doctor/doctor's office |
|
|
21% |
02 - Health clinic/hospital |
|
|
18% |
03 - Pre-natal class |
|
|
5% |
04 - Pharmacy/drug store |
|
|
3% |
05 - Workplace |
|
|
1% |
06 - Through friends/family |
|
|
3% |
07 - Books/magazines |
|
|
28% |
08 - Internet sources |
|
|
18% |
09 - TV programs |
|
|
12% |
10 - Health Canada/flyers and pamphlets |
|
7% |
11 - Public health organizations/programs |
|
7% |
12 - Library |
|
|
6% |
13 - Newspapers |
|
|
5% |
14 - TV advertisements |
|
|
4% |
15 - Other media |
|
|
3% |
16 - School |
|
|
3% |
17 - alcohol bottles/alcohol vendors |
|
2% |
18 - Posters/billboards |
|
|
2% |
19 - Journals |
|
|
1% |
20 - Others (SPECIFY) |
|
|
2% |
21 - DK/NA |
|
|
9% |
|
|
|
|
Is each of the following statements true or not true? |
|
|
|
|
|
a)alcohol use during pregnancy can lead to life-long
disablities in a child. |
|
|
|
|
|
1 - True |
89% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 - Not true |
8% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
3 - DK/NA |
3% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
b)Most of the effects of alcohol use on a child usually
disappear as the child grows older. |
|
|
|
|
|
1 - True |
9% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2 - Not true |
82% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
3 - DK/NA |
10% |
|
|
10.
Do you strongly approve, somewhat approve, somewhat disapprove or strongly
disapprove of each of the following: READ AND ROTATE
a) Requiring labels on alcohol products warning about the risks of alcohol
use during pregnancy.
1 - Strongly approve |
66% |
2 - Somewhat approve |
24% |
3 - Somewhat disapprove |
7% |
4 - Strongly disapprove |
4% |
5 - DK/NA |
|
b) Requiring signs in restaurants warning about the risks of alcohol
use during pregnancy.
|
1 - Strongly approve |
40% |
|
2 - Somewhat approve |
38% |
|
3 - Somewhat disapprove |
14% |
|
4 - Strongly disapprove |
8% |
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
c) |
Requiring signs in bars and clubs warning
about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy. |
|
|
|
|
1 - Strongly approve |
55% |
|
2 - Somewhat approve |
28% |
|
3 - Somewhat disapprove |
11% |
|
4 - Strongly disapprove |
7% |
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
d) Government-sponsored advertising describing the effects and warning
about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy.
|
1 - Strongly approve |
78% |
|
2 - Somewhat approve |
19% |
|
3 - Somewhat disapprove |
2% |
|
4 - Strongly disapprove |
1% |
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
e) Requiring messages on alcohol advertising
warning about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy. |
|
|
|
|
1 - Strongly approve |
73% |
|
2 - Somewhat approve |
22% |
|
3 - Somewhat disapprove |
3% |
|
4 - Strongly disapprove |
2% |
|
5 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
WOMAN ONLY—OTHERS
GO TO Q.15 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
a) |
Have you ever given birth to a child? |
|
|
|
N=902 |
|
1 - Yes -ASK (b) |
63% |
|
2 - No - GO TO Q. 12 |
37% |
|
|
|
|
3 - DK/NA - GO TO Q.12 |
|
|
|
|
b) Did you give birth to a child within the past five years?
|
|
|
N=584 |
|
|
1 - Yes |
56% |
|
|
2 - No |
44% |
|
|
3 - DK/NA |
* |
|
|
|
|
c) |
How many children have you given birth to? |
|
'DO NOT |
|
|
|
READ |
|
N=584 |
|
|
1 - 1 |
33% |
|
|
2 - 2 |
44% |
|
|
3 - 3 |
15% |
|
|
4 - 4 |
6% |
|
|
5 - 5 |
1% |
|
|
6 - 6 or more |
* |
|
|
7 - DK/NA |
* |
12. a) Thinking about yourself, are you currently pregnant or
think you might become pregnant within the next two years?
|
|
N=902 |
1 - Yes, currently pregnant |
GO TO Q.13 |
6% |
|
|
|
|
2 - Yes, might become pregnant within the next two years |
GO TO Q 13 |
20% |
|
|
|
|
3 - No |
ASK (b) |
74% |
4 - DK/NA |
ASK (b) |
1% |
b) Do you think you might become pregnant at some point
in the future?
|
N=680 |
1 - yes |
30% |
2 - No |
67% |
3 - DK/NA |
2% |
13. If you were to become pregnant, would you
|
N=902 |
1 - not change your alcohol use |
4% |
2 - cut back on your alcohol use, or |
11% |
3 - stop alcohol use |
62% |
VOLENTEERED |
|
4 - don't use alcohol now |
23% |
5 - DK/NA |
* |
14. Thinking about yourself, would you be more likely to drink
alcohol, less likely to drink alcohol or would it make no difference to
your alcohol use in each of the following situations:
READ AND ROTATE
a) If your spouse or partner continued to drink alcohol during your
pregnancy?
|
|
N=902 |
|
1 - More likely |
4% |
|
2 - Less likely |
16% |
|
3 - No difference |
69% |
|
VOLUNTEERED |
|
|
4 - Don't drink alcohol |
12% |
|
5 - Don't have spouse |
|
|
6 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
b) |
If your spouse or partner encouraged you to
stop or cut back your alcohol use during your pregnancy? |
|
|
|
|
|
N=902 |
|
1 - More likely |
7% |
|
2 - Less likely |
39% |
|
3 - No difference |
39% |
|
VOLUNTEERED |
|
|
4 - Don't drink alcohol |
15% |
|
5 - Don't have spouse |
|
|
6 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
c) |
If your spouse or partner were to offer you
alcohol during your pregnancy? |
|
|
|
|
|
N=902 |
|
1 - More likely |
3% |
|
2 - Less likely |
22% |
|
3 - No difference |
61% |
|
VOLUNTEERED |
|
|
4 - Don't drink alcohol |
14% |
|
5 - Don't have spouse |
|
|
6 - DK/NA |
|
d) If your spouse or partner stopped drinking alcohol during your
pregnancy?
|
N=902 |
1 - More likely |
3% |
2 - Less likely |
28% |
3 - No difference |
57% |
VOLUNTEERED |
|
4 - Don't drink alcohol |
12% |
5 - Don't have spouse |
— |
6 - DK/NA |
* |
MEN ONLY—OTHERS GO TO Q.18
15. a) Do you have any children?
1 - Yes 2 - No 3 - DK/NA
|
|
N=303 |
Yes—Ask (b) |
|
76% |
No —Go to Q.16 |
|
24% |
|
|
|
DK/NA—Go to Q.16 |
|
* |
|
|
|
b) Do you have any children aged 5 or younger?
|
|
N=232 |
|
|
1 - Yes |
60 |
|
|
2 - No |
40 |
|
|
3 - DK/NA |
|
c) |
How many children do you have? |
|
DO NOT READ |
|
|
|
|
|
N=232 |
|
|
1 - 1 |
32% |
|
|
2 - 2 |
43% |
|
|
3 - 3 |
17% |
|
|
4 - 4 |
5% |
|
|
5 - 5 |
2% |
|
|
6 - 6 or more |
1% |
|
|
7 - DK/NA |
* |
16. a) Do you currently have a spouse or partner who is pregnant,
or whom you think might become pregnant within the next two years?
N=303
- Yes —Go to Q.17—31%
- No—Ask (b)—68%
- DK/NA— 1%
b) Do you think your spouse or partner might become pregnant at
some point in the future?
N=214
- - Yes —Go to Q.17—27%
- - No —Ask (b)—72%
- - DK/NA—2%
17. Thinking about yourself, if your spouse or partner were to
become pregnant, would you be very likely, somewhat likely, not very likely
or not at all likely to do each of the following?
READ AND ROTATE
a) Encourage her to stop or cut back on her alcohol use during
the pregnancy
|
|
N=303 |
|
1 - Very likely |
71% |
|
2 - Somewhat likely |
8% |
|
3 - Not very likely |
4% |
|
4 - Not at all likely |
4% |
|
5 - Spouse does not drink now |
14% |
|
6 - DK/NA |
|
|
|
|
b) |
Stop drinking alcohol yourself during her pregnancy |
|
|
|
|
|
|
N=303 |
|
1 - Very likely |
30% |
|
2 - Somewhat likely |
22% |
|
3 - Not very likely |
23% |
|
4 - Not at all likely |
14% |
|
5 - Spouse does not drink now |
11% |
|
6 - DK/NA |
1% |
DEMOGRAPHICS |
|
|
ASK ALL |
|
|
18. |
Finally, a few questions for statistical purposes. |
Please be assured that all your responses will be kept
entirely anonymous and absolutely confidential |
|
In what year were you born? |
|
SPECIFY |
|
2 - DK/NA |
19. |
What is the highest level of education that you have reached? |
Do not read - circle only one |
|
01 - Some elementary (Grades 1-7) |
|
02 - Completed elementary (Grade 8) |
|
03 - Some high school (Grades 9-11) |
|
04 - Completed high school (Grades 12 or 13) |
|
05 - Some community college, vocational, trade school,
CEGEP |
|
06 - Diploma or certificate from community college, vocational,
trade school, CEGEP |
|
07 - Some university |
|
08 - Completed university (Bachelor's degree) |
|
09 - Post graduate/professional school (Master's degree,
Ph.D., LI.B, M.D. M.Ed, etc.) |
|
10 - No schooling |
|
VOLUNTEERED |
|
11 - Refuse/DK/NA |
20. |
Which of the following best corresponds to your present
situation? |
|
Are you: |
|
1 - Employed full-time |
|
2 - Employed part-time |
|
3 - Unemployed |
|
4 - A home-maker |
|
5 - Retired |
|
6 - A student |
|
7 - Other |
21. |
In addition to being Canadian, to which ethnic or cultural
group do you or your ancestors belong? |
DO NOT READ—CODE TWO MAXIMUM. |
|
|
|
01 -British (English, Welsh, Scottish,
Irish) |
|
02 - French |
|
03 -Other European (German, Ukrainian,
Polish, Dutch, Italian, Portuguese, Greek, Spanish, Russian, etc.) |
|
04 - Jewish |
|
05 -Chinese |
|
06 -South Asian (ex. East Indian, Pakistani, Punjabi,
Sri Lankan) |
|
07 -Black (ex. African, Haitian, Jamaican,
Somali, American Black) |
|
08 -Aboriginal (First Nations, Indian, Metis, Inuit) |
|
09 -Southeast Asian (Cambodian, Indonesian, Laotian,
Vietnamese, Filipino) |
|
10 - Other (specify) |
|
11 - DK/NA |
22. |
Were you born in Canada or in another country? |
1 - Canada 2 - Another country 3 - DK/NA |
23. a) Are you currently:
1 - Married or living as a couple |
$6.--E- |
2 - Widowed |
2-72-4 |
|
|
3 - Separated |
2-72-4 |
|
|
4 - Divorced, or |
2-72-4 |
|
|
5 - Single |
2-72-4 |
|
|
6 - DK/NA/Refuse |
2-72-4 |
|
|
b) How long have you been married or living with your partner?
DO NOT READ
- Less than one year
- 1 to less than 2 years
- 2 to less than 4 years
- 4 to less than 5 years
- 5 to less than 10 years
- 10 to less than 15 year
- over 15 years
- DK/NA
Into which of the following categories would you put the total annual
income in 1998 of all the members of your household, including yourself,
before taxes and deductions?
- Under $10,000
- $10,001 to $20,000
- $20,001 to $30,000
- $30,001 to $40,000
- $40,001 to $50,000
- $50,001 to $60,000
- $60,001 to $70,000
- $70,001 to $80,000
- $80,001 to $90,000
- $90,001 to $100,000
- $100,000 and over
- DK/NA /Refused
24.
25. Finally, how many alcoholic drinks did you have during an average
week in the last month (1RWH-WR LQWHUYLHZHU- a drink
is a glass of wine, one wine cooler, one can or bottle of beer, one shot
of liquor, one mixed cocktail)?
'2-127-5($'
1 - No drinks during an average week
2 - Less than one drink during an average week 3 - 1 to 3 drinks a week
4 - 4 to 6 drinks a week 5 - 7 to 10 drinks a week 6 - 11 to 14 drinks
a week 7 - 15 to 17 drinks a week 8 - 18 or more drinks a week 9 - DK/NA
1RWH-WR-LQWHUYLHZHU- If respondent asks for more information
on the topic, read:
If you would like to receive information about alcohol and pregnancy, please
call the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse at 1-800-559-4514.
|