Alcoholic drinks have got a bad reputation out there. But are they truly bad?

The Internet is full of mixed messages and thoughts about the good and bad of alcohol.

On the one hand, moderate amounts have been linked to having multiple health benefits.

On the other hand, alcohol is addictive and many need admissions to rehabilitation centers to get over this addiction. Also, alcohol is highly toxic to the liver— especially when one drinks too much.

The truth is that the health effects of alcohol vary between individuals and may depend on the amount and type of alcohol consumed.

The recommendation would be to buy good quality alcohol from legit outlets. Also, stop drinking when you start getting tipsy.

The image below shows images of the different types of alcohol and their serving sizes.

Here are some must know facts about the impact of alcohol on individuals.

• 75% of oesophageal cancers are caused by chronic alcohol consumption.

• Chronic alcohol consumption is associated with 10% increase in a woman’s risk of breast cancer.

• As many as 35% of heavy drinkers develop cirrhosis.
• As many as 36% of the cases of primary liver cancer are linked to heavy chronic drinking.

• Nearly 50% of cancers of the mouth, pharynx and larynx are associated with heavy drinking.

• Heavy chronic drinking contributes to approximately 65% of all cases of pancreatitis.

• Alcoholics are 10 times more likely to develop cancer than the general population.

Seek professional help if you are over dependent on alcohol. They have been effective in improving the condition of those who have alcohol dependence.

Reference

April is Alcohol Awareness Month. Community Health Washington.