Rise in Alcohol-Related Liver Disease: A Sharp Increase Over Two Decades

Recent research highlights a concerning surge in alcohol-related liver disease among Americans, showing more than a doubling of cases over the past 20 years. A comprehensive study conducted by Keck Medicine of USC examined data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning 1999 to 2020. The findings reveal that individuals who engage in heavy drinking are now more than twice as likely to develop significant liver damage compared to those two decades ago. Heavy drinking is defined as consuming eight or more drinks per week for women and 15 or more for men.

This rise in liver disease is especially alarming because alcohol-related liver conditions remain the leading cause of liver-related deaths in the United States. Dr. Brian P. Lee, a hepatologist involved in the study, emphasized that these results serve as a wake-up call regarding the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption.

The research also uncovers demographic shifts among heavy drinkers. Over the years, the proportion of women, adults aged 45 and older, people living in poverty, and those with metabolic syndrome has increased among heavy drinkers. These groups have historically been linked to higher risks of alcohol-related liver damage, and their growing representation in heavy drinking populations may explain part of the rising incidence of liver disease.

Interestingly, the study found that average alcohol consumption rates remained relatively stable over the past two decades, suggesting other factors, such as demographic changes and health profiles, contribute to the increased liver disease cases. The research underscores the importance of targeted screening and intervention strategies for high-risk populations.

The study was supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and adds vital insights into changing patterns of alcohol consumption and liver health risks. Researchers hope that their findings will guide clinicians toward more effective identification and management of patients vulnerable to liver disease due to alcohol use.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-alcohol-liver-disease-years-reveals.html