Deaths in the USA from alcohol use have risen about twofold from 1999 to 2020. This unfortunate fact is described by Matarazzo and colleagues in The American Journal of Medicine on November 10, 2024.
They noted that “alcohol is a major contributor to premature mortality and morbidity.” [Mortality means death and morbidity means illness]
The research they published showed that “in 1999, there were 19,356 alcohol-related deaths,” and “by 2020, deaths increased to 48,870”, which is about “twofold.”
The increase was found in all adult age groups “with the largest (being) 3.8-fold in those 25 to 34.” Interestingly, “women experienced a 2.5-fold increase …”
Excessive alcohol use is especially worrisome in adults who are overweight, obese, and/or diabetic. All of these conditions can cause liver disease.
We know we have an epidemic of overweight and obesity in the US. Increasing use of alcohol (empty calories) makes things worse. See my blog Obesity and Overweight in the USA on November 15, 2024.
This is worth paying attention to.
Peter M. Hartmann, MD
Family Medicine & Psychiatry
