It is reported that in 2015 alone, there were over 15 million alcoholics in the country. [1]
With alcoholism’s rise among groups, such as women, older adults, and minorities, this number is continuing to grow. [2] Everyone knows the sort-term dangers of alcohol consumption, but what are the long-term dangers of chronic alcohol consumption, such as with binge drinking or alcoholism? Our Massachusetts rehabilitation center explores the long-term health risks of alcoholism.
Health Risks of Alcoholism
There are many illnesses caused by alcoholism that men and women of all ages may be subject to if they are drinking heavily. Alcoholism and heavy drinking increase the risks of these diseases of alcoholism. Health problems associated with alcohol include:
- High blood pressure and stroke
- Liver disease, fatty liver
- Heart disease
- Learning problems
- Dementia
- Depression and anxiety
The CDC reports the above issues associated with alcoholism, citing that even heavy drinking associated with binge drinking can increase the risks of health problems related to alcohol. [3] Additional chronic diseases related to alcoholism include epilepsy, breast cancer, diabetes, colon cancer, liver cancer, and depressive disorders. [4]
The greater the amount of alcohol consumed and the longer the duration of alcohol consumption, the greater the risks of facing these diseases of alcoholism. Even excessive drinking, which is defined as 4 or more drinks per occasion for women and 5 or more for men, can increase the risks of alcohol-related health problems.[3]
Avoiding Health Risks of Drinking
The safest option for avoiding or reducing the dangers of these diseases of alcoholism is to find sobriety. Long-term sobriety can lessen existing symptoms of illnesses associated with drinking while reducing the risk of developing issues in the future. Contact our alcohol rehab today to learn how we can help with recovery.
Alcoholism is a dangerous disease that can be treated, call 888-280-4763 to learn more.
Related Reading
Even Future Fathers Can Cause Alcohol-Related Birth Defects
The Truth About Exhaustion after Quitting Alcohol
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