Source: Fox News
Summary
A new study from the University of Southern California (USC) suggests that even occasional binge drinking can triple the risk of a serious liver condition, advanced liver fibrosis, in people with underlying metabolic liver disease. The study analyzed six years of data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and found that occasional heavy drinking (four or more drinks in one day for women and five or more drinks for men, at least once each month) was linked to at least triple the chance of advanced liver fibrosis, compared to the same amount spread over a longer period of time. The study’s lead investigator, Brian P. Lee, MD, said that the pattern of drinking matters very much, and that episodic heavy drinking is an incredibly common pattern among U.S. adults.
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The advice sounds familiar.
The study’s findings highlight the importance of responsible drinking habits, and the risks associated with binge drinking. The American Liver Foundation notes that advanced liver fibrosis is a condition that occurs in the advanced stage of chronic liver disease, marked by a buildup of significant scar tissue due to chronic, long-term inflammation. The study’s results are consistent with previous research on the topic, and reinforce the importance of moderation when it comes to alcohol consumption.
As the study’s lead investigator noted, “Many patients ask if they don’t drink on weekdays, whether they can drink more on weekends – like a weekly ‘quota’ – and our study is showing that the answer is no.” This sentiment is echoed by Julian Braithwaite, CEO of the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking, who said that “how you drink matters.” The study’s findings serve as a reminder that individual risk factors, such as medical conditions, family history, and lifestyle, should be taken into account when considering alcohol consumption.
The study’s results are also consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which recommend adults limit alcohol beverages. The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States recommends that people talk to their health providers to determine what is best for them based on individual risk factors.
Perhaps it’s time to rethink the notion of a “weekly quota” for alcohol consumption.
Author: Evan Null
