Prevalence, proximity and predictors of alcohol ads in Central Harlem

AIMS: This study examined the prevalence of alcohol ads, the spatial relationship between alcohol ads and schools, churches and playgrounds, and area-level determinants of alcohol ad density in Central Harlem, New York City. METHODS: Alcohol advertising was quantified using street observation. Data on city demographics and infrastructure were obtained from the census and municipal databases. RESULTS: Alcohol ads were densely distributed; almost half of ads fell within a 152 m buffer of schools, churches and playgrounds; and ad density was positively associated with retail liquor outlet density. CONCLUSIONS: Predominantly Black neighbourhoods continue to face high exposure to outdoor alcohol advertising, including around sites at which youth congregate.