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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Amy B. Helburn, MPH, Community Health Division, The Medical Foundation, 622 Washington Street 2nd Floor, Dorchester, MA 02124, 617-279-2265, ahelburn@tmfnet.org

This presentation will describe the advocacy efforts of the MBTAA Collaborative to remove alcohol advertising on the “T” public transit system in Greater Boston. Underage drinking and related health and behavioral risks are a significant public health issue. Youth readily have access to alcohol through social sources. Alcohol advertising influences the attitudes of parents and peers, and creates an environment that suggests consumption and over-consumption are normal activities. A NIAAA study has demonstrated a direct correlation between advertising and underage drinking. In Greater Boston, thousands of youth depend on public transit to get to school. Alcohol is widely advertised throughout the “T”, including ads wrapped around the outside of street level trains. MBTAA is a coordinated community effort involving coalitions, non-profits, schools, local government, universities, youth groups, health centers, parents and youth. The youth have led such advocacy efforts as conducting a photo survey, public opinion poll, and Letter of Endorsement campaign to raise awareness and gain support. The Collaborative has partnered with legislators, petitioned “T” administrators, held a press conference, and obtained financial records indicating the fraction of revenues generated by alcohol advertising. MBTAA proposes working with “T” administrators to revise advertising guidelines. Participants will learn practical strategies to foster youth leadership, frame an issue, gain broad support, and advocate for policy revision. The presenter will also share strategies for compiling an advocacy document and describe challenges involved in influencing policy within an independent state agency.

Learning Objectives: