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.