Study of over 135,000 adults aged 60 and older reveals alcohol severely impacts health. Findings challenge long-held beliefs about heart benefits.
- Study of over 135,000 adults aged 60 and older reveals alcohol severely impacts health. Findings challenge long-held beliefs about heart benefits.
- Two scientific groups are preparing reports on the relationship between alcohol and health ahead of an update to the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, the Times reported.
- Why does alcohol increase these risks?
- What types of cancer are linked to alcohol consumption?
- What can I do to reduce the risks?
- It’s important to remember that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.
- For additional information, we recommend consulting the following sources:
A new study confirms that alcohol consumption, even in moderate amounts, is linked to a higher risk of developing various diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
The study, which followed just over 135,000 adults aged 60 and older for 12 years, also dispels the old belief that light or moderate alcohol consumption is good for the heart.
Instead, researchers reported in the journal JAMA Network Open that there was no reduction in deaths from heart disease among light or moderate drinkers, regardless of their health or socioeconomic status.
On the other hand, they added, alcohol likely increases the risk of cancer “from the first drop.” The new findings come as experts grapple with what U.S. official alcohol consumption guidelines should be.
Two scientific groups are preparing reports on the relationship between alcohol and health ahead of an update to the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, the Times reported.
Current U.S. dietary guidelines state that “drinking less is better for health than drinking more,” and that adults over 21 should limit themselves to one drink per day for women and two for men.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization says that even low levels of alcohol consumption “can pose health risks,” but adds that “most alcohol-related harm comes from excessive episodic or continuous heavy drinking.”
The new study found that drinking mainly wine and drinking only with meals moderated the risk, particularly of death from cancer. That reduction in risk could be due to slower alcohol absorption or could reflect other healthy lifestyle choices these individuals made, Ortolá suggested.
Overall, moderate alcohol consumption (defined as between 20 and 40 grams of alcohol per day for men and between 10 and 20 grams for women) was associated with a higher risk of death from all causes and a higher risk of dying from cancer. In the United States, a standard drink contains 14 grams of alcohol.
Why does alcohol increase these risks?
Cellular damage: Alcohol can damage cell DNA, increasing the risk of cancerous cells developing.
Inflammation: Alcohol consumption can cause chronic inflammation in the body, which is linked to the development of many diseases, including cancer.
Increased blood pressure: Alcohol can raise blood pressure, a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
Increased triglycerides: Alcohol can raise triglyceride levels in the blood, which can also contribute to heart disease.
Liver damage: The liver is the main organ responsible for processing alcohol, and excessive consumption can damage it, leading to cirrhosis and other serious health problems.
What types of cancer are linked to alcohol consumption?
Alcohol has been linked to a higher risk of developing several types of cancer, including:
1.Mouth, pharynx, and larynx cancer: Alcohol irritates the lining of the mouth and throat, increasing the risk of cancer in these areas.
2.Esophageal cancer: Alcohol consumption, especially when combined with smoking, significantly increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
3.Liver cancer: Alcohol is a leading cause of liver cirrhosis, which raises the risk of developing liver cancer.
4.Colorectal cancer: Excessive alcohol consumption has been associated with a higher risk of colon and rectal cancer.
5.Breast cancer: While the evidence is more complex, some studies suggest that alcohol consumption may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer in women.
What can I do to reduce the risks?
Limit or avoid alcohol consumption: The most effective way to reduce the risk of alcohol-related cancer and cardiovascular diseases is to limit or avoid alcohol entirely.
Consult a doctor: If you have concerns about your alcohol consumption and its potential effects on your health, consult a doctor.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Combining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce health risks associated with alcohol consumption.
It’s important to remember that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.
While some studies have suggested that moderate consumption may have some cardiovascular health benefits, the risks associated with alcohol far outweigh any potential benefits.
For additional information, we recommend consulting the following sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/es/risk-factors/alcohol.html
World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int/es/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/alcohol
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