Health
AMA condemns NASCAR decision to allow liquor sponsorship
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted Dec. 13, 2004
The American Medical Association expressed dismay at the November decision of the National Assn. for Stock Car Auto Racing to allow distilled spirits makers to sponsor the sport.
The AMA is concerned that the link will send a mixed message about drinking and driving. The move could also lead to increasing the exposure of children and adolescents to alcohol advertising, and, since NASCAR races are televised, be a backdoor to TV advertising which is not currently permitted.
"The American Medical Association is extremely troubled to learn that NASCAR will soon advertise hard liquor brands through sponsorships of race cars and teams," said AMA president-elect J. Edward Hill, MD. "Our children need less exposure to alcohol, not more. NASCAR and other major sports already bombard adult and youth audiences with advertisements and branding for beer companies. NASCAR's unwise decision only makes matters worse."
According to a statement issued by the sports association, spirit sponsorship will be allowed as of next year and must comply with the Distilled Spirits Council's Code of Responsible Practices for Beverage Alcohol Advertising and Marketing.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2004/12/13/hlbf1213.htm.
