Alcohol interlock systems in Sweden: 10 years of systematic work.

In this issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, the Task Force on Community Preventive Services presents a systematic review of the literature o assess the effectiveness of ignition interlocks for reducng alcohol-impaired driving and alcohol-related crashes. The following commentary highlights the progress made with these devices in Sweden. In Sweden, there are 9 million inhabitants, of which 6 million have a driving license. A primary goal to improve the fıtness of drivers is to separate drinking from driving. Thus, the driving while intoxicated (DWI) limits and sanctions are very strict by comparison to other developed nations. Since 1990, the illegal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Sweden is 0.02%. The criminal sanction is either high fınes at the lower levels or prison at levels 0.10%. The administrative sanction is always suspension of the driving license for a period of up to 3 years depending onBAC and recidivism. The offenders have to prove a sober lifestyle before a new license will be issued. Use of illegal drugs and narcotics is met by zero tolerance. Annually some 22,000 drunk or drugged drivers are convicted in Sweden.