Alcohol drives up liver transplant demand in young people

The city of Aurora, Colorado is facing a concerning trend as a growing number of young Americans, particularly women, are drinking their way onto the organ transplant list. Alcohol has been identified as the leading cause of liver disease by the National Institutes of Health, prompting alarm among medical experts.

Dr. James Burton, a liver transplant specialist in Colorado, has observed a significant shift in the demographics of patients in need of liver transplants. Just a decade ago, it was predominantly men in their 50s and 60s who required these life-saving procedures. However, Dr. Burton has noticed an increase in the number of young women in their 20s and 30s who are now in need of liver transplants due to alcohol-related liver disease.

According to Dr. Burton, some patients in need of alcohol-related liver transplants are as young as their early 20s and have been drinking alcohol since their teenage years. Alcohol-related liver disease accounts for nearly 50% of all liver transplant surgeries, highlighting the severity of the issue.

Dr. Burton also pointed out that women process alcohol differently than men, making them more susceptible to the damaging effects of heavy drinking. The COVID-19 lockdowns further exacerbated the problem, as more individuals turned to excessive drinking at home during this challenging time.

One such individual is Emma Lillibridge, a 31-year-old woman from Colorado who never imagined she would need a liver transplant. After being hospitalized with a serious illness, she was shocked to learn that her liver had been severely damaged by years of heavy alcohol consumption during her 20s. Lillibridge, who worked in a brewery surrounded by heavy drinkers, underwent a liver transplant surgery at the age of 30 to save her life.

Now sober and healthy, Lillibridge is sharing her story to raise awareness about the dangers of excessive drinking and help prevent others from facing similar health issues. She received her liver transplant in October 2023 and is now focused on rebuilding her life, starting a new job, and planning her upcoming wedding.

As the number of young Americans in need of liver transplants due to alcohol-related liver disease continues to rise, it is crucial for individuals to recognize the harmful effects of heavy drinking and take steps to prioritize their health and well-being. Awareness, education, and support are essential in addressing this growing public health concern.