Liver Disease Surging In Young Adults
Recent research has revealed a significant rise in deaths related to alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) in the United States, with the sharpest increases occurring among women, young adults, and Indigenous populations. From 2018 to 2022, ALD deaths climbed nearly 9% each year, a rate more than double that observed in the preceding decade. Experts believe the surge is tied to increased alcohol use during the COVID-19 pandemic and preexisting health conditions such as obesity and high blood pressure.
The study, based on national death certificate data, showed that although men still account for the highest number of ALD deaths, women are experiencing faster increases. In 2022, ALD caused death in 8 out of every 100,000 women, a stark rise from earlier years. Indigenous populations were the most affected, with liver cirrhosis death rates reaching 33 per 100,000 among American Indian and Alaska Native adults. Hepatitis-related deaths more than doubled in these communities over a 12-year span.
Young adults, particularly those between 25 and 44, also showed the steepest annual increase in alcohol-related hepatitis deaths. Experts caution that liver damage caused by alcohol can take years to develop, meaning the full impact of pandemic-era drinking may not be seen for another five to ten years. Biologically, cisgender women are more vulnerable to alcohol’s effects due to slower alcohol metabolism, leading to higher organ damage risks from smaller amounts.
Health officials emphasize the importance of public education around alcohol’s risks. The American Medical Association has called for clearer labeling on alcoholic beverages and better awareness campaigns, especially highlighting alcohol’s link to conditions like breast cancer. Although there has been a slight decline in drinking since its peak in 2020, it remains uncertain whether this shift will translate to fewer ALD-related deaths in the coming years.
Alcohol-related liver disease remains the primary reason for liver transplants in the U.S., and alcohol-associated hepatitis is now the fastest-growing cause for transplant needs. Medical professionals stress the importance of early intervention, healthier drinking habits, and support for those at risk to address the worsening public health issue.
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