By Franklin Delgado
A recent study suggests limiting alcohol consumption to one drink a day, contrasting with previous guidelines that allowed up to two drinks for men. The publication highlights the need for more concrete guidance for Americans.
The scientists who carried out the study, published in Journal of Research on Alcohol and Pillsexamined 56 systematic reviews on alcohol and health. The findings reveal a significant increase in mortality risk related to excessive alcohol consumption.
Data indicate that consumption of more than 6.5 drinks per week for men and more than 7 for women increases the risk of illness and injury. After 14 drinks a week, the risk of mortality rises to 1 in 25.
“One in 25 people is at very high risk,” said Jürgen Rehm, senior scientist at the Center for Addiction and Mental Health at the University of Toronto and co-author of the article. NBCNews.
Priscilla Martinez-Matyszczyk, another of the authors of the new study and deputy scientific director of the Alcohol Research Group of the Institute of Public Health, clarifies that the study did not analyze mortality from all causes, but rather examined mortality specifically attributed to alcohol to avoid confounding factors, says Associated Press (AP).
Disagreement with previous policies
The study has highlighted differences with previous guidelines, including those from the Trump administration, which offered less precise recommendations. Even though the Biden administration released a report by scientists in 2025, its findings were not implemented.
The opinion of several experts highlights that the perception that alcohol is beneficial for health is a myth. The American Cancer Society suggests that it is best to avoid alcohol completely, especially for those who are at high risk for cancer.
Although the findings are about population patterns, the importance of each individual evaluating their non-public risk is emphasized. The decision about alcohol consumption must be made with awareness of the acquainted history and the associated risks.
Risks associated with alcohol consumption
Alcohol consumption presents specific risks that vary substantially by age group, as the body and brain respond differently at each stage of life.
Children and adolescents (under 18 years of age)
This group is the most vulnerable due to incomplete brain development:
- Permanent brain damage. The brain only reaches its maximum development around the age of 21; Alcohol affects memory, attention and thinking, causing poor academic performance.
- Greater likelihood of dependency. Those who start before age 15 are up to 10 times more likely to develop alcoholism as adults.
- Accidents and violence. Increased risk of car accidents, falls, drowning, suicide, homicide, and being a victim of violent crime.
- Dangerous sexual behaviors. Increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancy and sexual assault.
- Mental health problems. It increases the risk of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, aggression and oppositional behaviors.
- rapid intoxication. They can die with just 4-5 drinks in 2 hours due to their smaller body size.
Young adults (18 to 25 years old)
- Most prevalent consumption. This group has the highest rates of heavy drinking and binge drinking.
- Security risks. Increased likelihood of car accidents, domestic accidents, and violent situations.
- Dangerous decisions. Alcohol leads to decisions that cause harm, including unprotected sexual behavior.
Middle-aged adults (26 to 54 years)
- Chronic diseases. Long-term consumption can cause cancer, liver damage, immune system disorders and brain damage.
- non-communicable diseases. Associated with liver diseases, cardiovascular diseases and other health problems.
- Worsened conditions: May worsen high blood pressure, diabetes, ulcers, and mood disorders.
Older adults (+55 years)
- Falls and fractures. Thinner bones break more easily; the rate of hip fractures increases with alcohol.
- Increased sensitivity. Feeling “high or euphoric” without increasing the amount of alcohol; Older women are more sensitive than men.
- Confusion with Alzheimer’s. Forgetfulness and confusion due to alcohol can be confused with Alzheimer’s disease.
- Drug interactions. Alcohol makes it difficult for doctors to identify and treat medical problems; can overshadow heart attack warning signs.
- traffic accidents more serious. Older drivers are already at greater risk; Alcohol increases these risks and causes more serious damage in accidents.
General risks
- Alcohol is a factor in 30% of suicides, 40% of car crashes, 50% of drownings and homicides, and 60% of falls.
- Even a moderate amount can cause traffic accidents with injury or death.
- Consumption is associated with the risk of non-communicable diseases such as liver and cardiovascular diseases.
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