Currently, population surveys which focus on alcohol consumption and related problems are carried out regularly in almost all EU and EEA countries. Despite serious efforts and substantial spending, comparison of results across the EU is difficult, if possible at all, due to the lack of standardised methodologies. To fill this gap the EU Project: “Standardized measurement of alcohol-related troubles” (SMART1) was launched. One of its objectives was “to develop standardized comparative survey methodologies on heavy drinking, binge drinking, drunkenness, context of drinking, alcohol dependence and unrecorded consumption”.

The methodology, developed on the basis of a review of European survey experiences from over 20 countries as well as a literature review, was tested (pilot survey) in 10 countries with different socio-cultural backgrounds and patterns of alcohol consumption (Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Spain, UK).

As a result, a model questionnaire with relevant guidelines for its implementation was designed and proposed for consideration for drinking specific surveys and as a component of other health surveys carried out at national, regional and EU levels. Therefore, the questionnaire consists of core and optional questions.

The core questions include alcohol consumption measures (beverage specific quantity frequency and risky single occasion drinking), questions on the context of drinking, a screening measure for alcohol abuse/dependency (RAPS), and questions on individual harm and harm from others, as well as social support for alcohol policies.

This publication discusses the background of proposed questions, methodological considerations and limitations. It also offers technical instructions as regards interviewing and data processing. Suggestions for further research are formulated.