9 hours Ago By Pallavi Mehra
Alcohol has long been a part of social gatherings, celebrations, and even daily routines for many people. But what often goes unnoticed is the negative impact it can have on health. From wine to vodka, every sip of alcohol carries risks that can lead to serious health complications over time.
Drinking even in small amounts can significantly harm health. While some believe moderate alcohol consumption is safe, major health organizations and experts are of the view that no level of alcohol is risk-free. The Hidden Dangers of AlcoholScientific studies increasingly link alcohol to serious health conditions, including cancer, liver disease, heart problems, and cognitive decline.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has been clear: “There is no safe level of alcohol consumption for health.” 1. Alcohol and CancerAlcohol has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), putting it in the same category as tobacco and asbestos.
A 2021 study published in The Lancet Oncology estimated that 741,300 new cancer cases worldwide in 2020 were directly caused by alcohol consumption. Dr Marissa B. Esser, Ph.
D., a public health analyst at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), explains, “Alcohol is a known carcinogen. It damages DNA and prevents cell repair, increasing the risk of multiple cancers.
Even low-level drinking raises the risk of breast and oesophagal cancers.” The strongest alcohol-related cancer risks include: - Liver cancer: Long-term alcohol use leads to cirrhosis, a key risk factor for liver cancer. - Breast cancer: A study in The New England Journal of Medicine found that just one drink per day increases breast cancer risk by 7–10 per cent.
- Oral, throat, and oesophagal cancers: Alcohol damages mucosal linings, making them more vulnerable to carcinogens. 2. The Myth of "Heart-Healthy" AlcoholFor years, red wine was promoted as heart-healthy.
However, recent studies challenge this belief. A 2023 meta-analysis published in JAMA Network Open concluded that even light alcohol consumption increases the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart failure. Dr Timothy Naimi, M.
D., a professor at the Boston University School of Public Health, states, “The idea that moderate drinking is good for the heart is outdated. In reality, even small amounts contribute to cardiovascular disease.
” Alcohol also weakens heart muscles, leading to alcoholic cardiomyopathy, where the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently. The American Heart Association (AHA) advises that reducing alcohol intake is one of the best ways to lower heart disease risk. 3.
Liver Damage and Digestive IssuesThe National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) warns that 15 per cent of heavy drinkers develop alcoholic hepatitis, and up to 20 per cent progress to cirrhosis, a life-threatening condition. Further, alcohol irritates the digestive system, increasing the risk of: - Gastritis (stomach lining inflammation) - Acid reflux and ulcers - Pancreatitis, which can be fatal in severe cases 4. Alcohol’s Impact on Mental Health and Brain FunctionBeyond physical health, alcohol consumption has profound effects on mental health.
A long-term study published in The BMJ found that people who drank more than 14 units of alcohol per week had a threefold increased risk of developing dementia. Dr Jurgen Rehm, Ph.D.
, a senior scientist at the Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, explains, “Alcohol affects the brain’s ability to repair itself. Even occasional drinking contributes to cognitive decline over time.” Alcohol is also linked to: - Increased risk of depression and anxiety - Disruptions in sleep quality - Impaired memory and concentration No Safe Level of Alcohol ConsumptionThe belief that moderate drinking is harmless is increasingly being challenged.
In 2023, the WHO released a statement in The Lancet Public Health reaffirming that “no level of alcohol consumption is safe for health.” Dr Isabelle Soerjomataram, M.D.
, Deputy Head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, warns, “Every sip of alcohol, no matter how small, increases the risk of cancer and other diseases. The only truly safe level of alcohol consumption is zero.” How to Reduce Alcohol-Related Health RisksSince alcohol’s risks increase with consumption, reducing or avoiding drinking is the best approach.
Here are some steps to protect your health: - Set limits: Reduce weekly intake or quit entirely. - Explore alcohol-free alternatives: Many beverages offer the taste without the health risks. - Seek support: Counseling and peer support can help those struggling with alcohol dependence.
- Stay informed: Understanding the risks helps in making healthier choices. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world..
