France, Jan. 6 -- RFI: Is France emerging from a kind of collective denial around alcohol?

Mickael Naassila: Yes, although it is not only denial. There is also a lack of knowledge. But something is happening. We are seeing more talk around not drinking and more and more people, particularly young people, are experimenting with not drinking.

We are much better informed today about the risks, and the message that any alcohol consumption carries a health risk is really starting to get through. We now hear young people saying 'alcohol is not good for your health, you have to be careful', which you did not hear as much before.

RFI: Is this cultural shift?

MN: Yes, clearly. The belief that alcohol is somehow 'protective' is receding. Even i...