Sam Burton’s research focuses on alcohol and substance use, and mental health during the perinatal period, including the impact on maternal and child outcomes and access to care. Sam’s research primarily uses quantitative methods, primarily with routinely collected healthcare records, RCT’s or cohort datasets. Sam’s work is focused upon examining stigma that women experience in relation to perinatal alcohol and substance use, to improve access and engagement with care services. He currently has a growing body of work around the impact of No-Low alcohol products on perinatal drinking behaviours, including attributed stigma and perceived harm of said products.

Abstract

Global prevalence of alcohol and substance use during the perinatal period: A systematic review and meta-analysis

A systematic review and meta-analysis examining the global prevalence of alcohol and substance use during the perinatal period, encompassing both antenatal and up to one year postpartum. Sub-analysis is presented on the impact of abstinence policies on prevalence rates for alcohol use, given inconsistencies in policy implementation across countries. The meta-analysis aims to estimate the prevalence of alcohol consumption (any amount) and any substance use during pregnancy and postpartum across various countries. This research aims to offer valuable insights into the global burden of alcohol and substance use during the perinatal period, while also highlighting the potential influence of abstinence policies on these rates.