Study Links Heavy Alcohol Use to Brain Damage and Shortened Lifespan

Research on nearly 1,800 brain autopsies reveals heavy drinkers face increased neurological risks, cognitive decline, and a 13-year reduction in lifespan.

Heavy drinking, defined as eight or more alcoholic drinks per week, is associated with a 133% higher risk of vascular brain lesions compared to non-drinkers.
Both current and former heavy drinkers show increased odds of developing tau tangles, a biomarker linked to Alzheimer’s disease, at 41% and 31% respectively.
Former heavy drinkers experience lower brain mass and worse cognitive abilities, highlighting long-term neurological impacts even after stopping heavy alcohol use.
The study found heavy drinkers die an average of 13 years earlier than those who never consumed alcohol.
Researchers emphasize the need for enhanced public health measures to address the significant neurological and lifespan risks posed by heavy alcohol consumption.