7th June 2024- Health experts are raising concerns about the potential health risks associated with alcohol consumption, emphasizing that even occasional drinking can lead to serious health consequences. While a moderate intake—up to one drink per day for women and two for men—is generally considered acceptable, excessive drinking poses significant threats to both physical and mental health.
Long-term alcohol use can lead to severe conditions such as heart disease and liver damage. For women, heavy drinking is defined as consuming eight or more drinks per week, while for men, it is 15 or more. The liver, responsible for detoxifying harmful substances, can become severely impaired by chronic alcohol consumption, leading to diseases such as alcoholic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis, which can ultimately result in liver failure or cancer.
Moreover, alcohol is the second biggest risk factor for cancer after smoking. Regularly exceeding recommended alcohol limits increases the risk of various cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, oesophagus, larynx, colon, breast, bowel, and liver. Women, in particular, face a higher risk of breast cancer, as alcohol can alter hormone levels, including oestrogen.
The impact of alcohol on the digestive system, although not always immediately apparent, can result in significant damage over time. Health professionals urge the public to be aware of these risks and to consider the long-term consequences of alcohol consumption on overall health.
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