NCETA in the Media

NCETA has recently featured in several Flinders University media releases highlighting research into alcohol use among Australian mid-life men, the addiction medicine workforce shortage, and smoking cessation support in lung cancer screening programs.

In May 2026, Flinders University released “More than 2m Australian middle-aged men drinking at risky levels”, highlighting research led by NCETA’s PhD student co-funded by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation and Flinders University. Stefano Zaccagnini examined alcohol use among men aged 30-59. Drawing on national data, the study found that more than two million Australian men in this age group are drinking above national guidelines. The findings also identified factors linked to risky drinking, including smoking, illicit drug use, psychological distress, occupation, income and living in regional areas, as well as differences between younger and older men within midlife. Read more

In June 2026, Flinders University released “It’s time to tackle the addiction medicine shortage”, highlighting research involving Professor Jacqueline Bowden and Dr Kirrilly Thompson. The study examined the gap between growing demand and workforce capacity, finding that about one in 30 Australians (3.3%) are living with a substance use disorder, yet there are only around 300 addiction medicine specialists nationwide, with many nearing retirement. Drawing on interviews with addiction medicine Fellows and trainees across Australia and New Zealand, the research found the shortage is not due to lack of interest, but lack of awareness, with many doctors discovering the specialty by chance. The findings highlight the need to introduce addiction medicine earlier in medical training, provide clear pathways into the specialty and expand clinical placements to help grow the workforce. Read more

Also in June 2026, Flinders University released “Lung cancer screening programs need to include quit-smoking support”, highlighting research led by Nathan Harrison as part of his PhD project. The study examined how smoking cessation support is delivered within lunch cancer screening programs and found that while many programs offer assistance, most are not yet designed to deliver full benefit, with gaps in how programs are implemented and maintained over time. Read more

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