A new study has found that alcohol consumption is linked to more than 60 diseases and injuries, with researchers saying reducing or quitting drinking early could help reverse some of the damage.
The research, published in the journal Addiction and reported by TheCable Lifestyle, examined global disease classifications and previous evidence on alcohol-related harm.
According to the study, heavy alcohol use is directly responsible for conditions including alcoholic cardiomyopathy, liver cirrhosis, and fetal alcohol syndrome. Researchers said these illnesses are entirely attributable to alcohol use.
Jürgen Rehm, a senior scientist at the Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, said such diseases “would not even exist in the world without alcohol use”.
The study also linked alcohol consumption to a higher risk of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections due to its effect on the liver and immune system.
Researchers noted that alcohol contributes significantly to cases of breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and dementia, although those illnesses can also occur independently of drinking.
The findings showed that some alcohol-related damage may improve after a person stops drinking. Heart-related risks, including elevated heart rate linked to alcohol intake, can decline when consumption is reduced.
The study further revealed that alcohol affects the brain by damaging neurons and weakening connections linked to memory and decision-making. While some recovery may occur after long-term abstinence, researchers warned that certain risks, including dementia, may persist.
It also found that alcohol temporarily weakens the immune system, though recovery depends on the amount consumed and the duration of drinking. Long-term heavy alcohol use may leave permanent damage.
The researchers added that short-term dangers such as injuries and sexually transmitted infections decrease significantly when intoxication stops.
