PubMed Central also reported that people with AUD have the highest all-cause mortality among all people receiving treatment for mental disorders. Their meta-analysis including 81 observational studies from many countries showed that people with AUD have three-fold higher mortality in men and four-fold higher mortality in women than the general population. They may drink more frequently each day or drink excessive amounts when drinking socially. Having more than 5 drinks in 2 hours is commonplace (and problematic). Later, it can cause fatigue, bleeding and bruising, itchy skin, yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes and fluid accumulation in the abdomen known as ascites. Fluid buildup in end-stage liver disease is a particularly ominous sign.
Co-occurring Health Conditions
Much time and effort was invested in quality assurance of statistical analytical techniques, which made the data comparable between the different countries. Without treatment, end-stage alcoholics are likely to suffer from a combination of symptoms including internal bleeding, spikes in their body temperature, swelling of the legs how long do alcoholics live (edema), and jaundice (yellowing of the skin). Men often experience erectile dysfunction and testicular atrophy, while women can have painful swelling in one or both breasts. Death is usually caused by a combination of internal bleeding and a buildup of toxins within the body and can include seizures and/or cardiac arrest.
Psychotherapy At Drug Rehab Unveiled
These include the health consequences of alcoholism, co-occurring medical conditions, and lifestyle factors and behavior. Alcoholism takes a toll on the body, leading to a range of specific health risks for those struggling with alcohol addiction. These risks include liver disease and cirrhosis, cardiovascular diseases, and an increased susceptibility to certain types of cancer. Additionally, alcoholism can increase the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Cancer and Alcoholism
Alcoholism can lead to various physical and mental health issues, including liver disease, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. These health conditions can significantly impact an alcoholic’s life expectancy [2]. Several factors contribute to the reduced life expectancy among alcoholics. The excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to various health issues, including liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, high blood pressure, and gastrointestinal problems, which may contribute to premature death [1].
- These studies provide valuable insights into the relationship between alcoholism and life expectancy, shedding light on regional and demographic variations, as well as the long-term effects of alcoholism.
- According to the CDC, more than one million people die yearly of cirrhosis, including over 40,000 people in the United States.
- The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
- A recent study published in Nature calculated a median age of death for alcohol-dependent individuals at 54.1 years for men and 59.4 years for women, both considerably lower than non-alcohol-dependent individuals.
AUD can lead to various physical, psychological, and social consequences. These programs are an example of how harm reduction strategies can directly improve public health outcomes by reducing the spread of infectious diseases among individuals with substance use disorders. With so many effects on the body, the usual first step in treating alcoholism is detox—or getting alcohol out of your system.
Specific Genes and Their Effects
Prolonged alcohol abuse can lead to liver inflammation, scarring (cirrhosis), and an increased risk of liver cancer. Alcoholic liver disease significantly impacts life expectancy https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/5-tips-of-how-to-maintain-recovery-motivation/ and can be fatal if not addressed. Alcoholism takes a toll on the body and can lead to a range of health complications that ultimately affect life expectancy.
- It’s important to address the issue of substance abuse comprehensively, considering both alcohol and cigarette use.
- Effective addiction treatment providers will have addiction counselors, but they should also have mental health services as many people with alcoholism have co-occurring mental health conditions.
- When most people drink to their tolerance level, they exhibit signs of intoxication.
- Shaun has a great passion for working with people that struggle with substance abuse as well as their families.