Alcohol and Longevity: Does Alcohol Increase Lifespan?

A major limitation of this study was the inclusion of patients from inpatient care only, which may have caused selection bias towards AUD patients with the most severe health problems. The study was register-based and lacked clinical data about the type of treatment and adherence. “The best ways to ensure longevity are to adopt healthy habits related to eating patterns and exercise,” echoes Jones. Avoiding “modifiable risks” such as tobacco products and limiting alcohol consumption is also recommended. “Finally, don’t underestimate the benefits of consistent preventive care with your doctor, including annual physicals, periodic blood work, and age-appropriate cancer screenings,” Jones advises.

In all people who have AUD, mortality is relatively higher in women, younger people and people in treatment for addiction (4). However, comprehensive mortality data over time of patients with AUD are not available from Nordic countries. The persistent use of alcohol as a method to self-medicate mental illness and a lack of awareness about its fatal side effects remain obstacles in the face of harm reduction. The result is a staggering difference between the how long do alcoholics live versus that of a healthy person. Mind you, this article’s analysis of the average life expectancy of an alcoholic looks at objective evidence.

Assessing Alcohol-Associated Risks Based on Alcohol Consumption

The most serious effect is Korsakoff’s syndrome, characterized in part by an inability to remember recent events or to learn new information. According to the CDC, more than one million people die yearly of cirrhosis, including over 40,000 people in the United States. Studies suggest that maintaining sobriety for 7 years minimum is the best way to minimise any permanent harm to a person’s physical health [17].

Secondly, there might be residual confounding factors in addition to the 15 confounders we controlled, such as the mental and socioeconomic status in suicide analysis. Lastly, the case numbers in certain death categories were too small, such as breast and bladder cancer, and may affect the statistical accuracy. Modest drinking has been repeatedly discussed in scientific papers as protective against certain diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, but in most cases, alcohol worsens health conditions, especially when consumed at high risk levels. The complexity of the risk relationship between alcohol and health conditions has confused clinicians as to whether it should be recommended.

Pros and Cons of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

If she takes no contraindicated medications, low-level alcohol consumption may confer a net benefit to her. In general, however, drinking patterns vary significantly among the members of a population. The 11-page baseline questionnaire measured dietary intake, detailed information on lifestyle factors and medical conditions [16]. Habitual consumption of food and (alcoholic) beverages https://ecosoberhouse.com/ during the year preceding baseline was assessed using a semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ), which was validated against a 9-day diet record [19]. Whether light-to-moderate alcohol intake is related to reduced mortality remains a subject of intense research and controversy. If you are alcohol-dependent, you may need professional treatment to break your addiction.

• The accumulation of these toxic metabolites, due to frequent binge drinking or long-term alcohol abuse, causes several physiological symptoms that progress into disease if left untreated.
• Lastly, the case numbers in certain death categories were too small, such as breast and bladder cancer, and may affect the statistical accuracy.
• Patricia Bellard has been with Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat for 10 years as the Director of Business Services.
• If a person tries to quit drinking on their own during end-stage alcoholism, they may experience severe symptoms of withdrawal, including tremors and hallucinations.