Industry-backed apps designed to cut drinking ‘mislead users’, researchers warn
A recent study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) has raised concerns about the accuracy and impact of industry-backed apps and websites aimed at helping people manage their alcohol consumption. Researchers found that some of these tools funded by the alcohol industry contain “blatant misinformation” and could potentially encourage individuals to drink more, rather than less.
The analysis compared 15 digital tools and apps from industry-backed organisations in the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia with 10 services not funded by the alcohol industry. The findings revealed that the industry-backed platforms were more likely to omit crucial information about the risks associated with alcohol consumption and to frame alcohol as a normal and social activity.
Specifically, the study identified “dark patterns” in the design of these tools, which can manipulate and influence users for commercial interests. These features could obscure the true health risks of excessive alcohol consumption and nudge individuals towards continuing to drink. Additionally, researchers noted contradictory messaging on some industry-backed tools, which could potentially lead to increased alcohol consumption.
Dr Elliot Roy-Highley, a co-author of the study, highlighted the need for transparency and accuracy in these tools. He emphasized the importance of informing the public about the risks associated with using alcohol industry-funded apps and called for the removal of tools found to contain misinformation.
The study also revealed discrepancies in the information provided by industry-backed tools compared to non-industry funded services. While the latter included detailed information on various health risks associated with alcohol consumption, the former were found to be lacking in such comprehensive data. For instance, only 20% of alcohol industry-funded tools provided information on the increased risk of cardiovascular disease, compared to 70% of non-industry tools.
Co-author Professor Mark Petticrew underscored the significance of shedding light on these “dark apps” promoted by the alcohol industry. He expressed hope that the study’s framework could be utilised to scrutinise future tools released for public use and ensure their credibility.
In response to the study, a spokesperson for Diageo defended their platform, DrinkiQ, stating that the report’s generalisation of individual findings across the industry was inaccurate. They affirmed that the information provided in DrinkiQ was based on scientific evidence and aimed at promoting responsible drinking. Likewise, a representative from Drinkaware emphasised their commitment to providing evidence-based advice on low-risk drinking.
Industry stakeholders, such as the Portman Group, argued that industry-funded initiatives have played a crucial role in addressing harmful drinking behaviours in the past. However, the study’s findings raise questions about the potential influence of industry-backed tools on individuals’ drinking habits and the need for greater transparency and accuracy in such platforms.
The implications of this research highlight the importance of critically evaluating the information provided by industry-backed apps and websites and advocating for evidence-based resources to support individuals in making informed decisions about their alcohol consumption.(ActionEvent/AFP)