Alcohol deaths have more than doubled in recent years, especially among women

Alcohol-Related Deaths Nearly Doubled Over Two Decades, Study Finds

A new study from Florida Atlantic University (FAU)’s Schmidt College of Medicine has revealed a concerning trend – the number of alcohol-related deaths nearly doubled from 1999 to 2020. Researchers analyzed data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER) and found that alcohol mortality rates increased from 10.7 per 100,000 in 1999 to 21.6 per 100,000 in 2020.

The study, published in The American Journal of Medicine, highlighted a fourfold increase in alcohol-related deaths among individuals aged 25 to 34. The main causes of these deaths were cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer, and cirrhosis of the liver.

Dr. Charles H. Hennekens, a professor of medicine at FAU Schmidt College of Medicine and the study author, emphasized the risks associated with moderate to heavy alcohol consumption. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to serious health conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, alcoholic cirrhosis, and alcoholic dementia. Additionally, obesity and diabetes can further increase the risk of alcohol-related deaths.

Dr. Ken Spielvogel, senior medical advisor for Carrara Treatment Wellness & Spa, highlighted the harmful effects of excessive alcohol consumption on the heart and other organs. He recommended following the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, which suggest limiting alcohol intake to one drink per day for women and individuals over 65, and two drinks per day for men.

While men had the highest overall mortality rates, the study found that women experienced the largest proportional increase in alcohol-related deaths. Factors such as the rise of “wine culture,” targeted alcohol marketing to women, and increased alcohol consumption during the pandemic have contributed to this trend.

Dr. Adam Scioli, chief medical officer at Caron Treatment Centers, noted that women are more vulnerable to the effects of alcohol due to biological differences. Women progress more rapidly to developing alcohol use disorder and are at higher risk of liver damage, heart issues, and certain cancers.

Experts called for tailored interventions to address alcohol-related deaths and emphasized the importance of early screening and intervention for individuals at risk of substance use disorders. They also stressed the need to normalize sobriety and provide support for those who choose not to drink alcohol.

In conclusion, the study underscores the alarming increase in alcohol-related deaths over the past two decades and highlights the importance of addressing this public health concern through targeted interventions and policy changes.