ALCOHOL AS A RISK FACTOR FOR A SPECTRUM OF INTERNAL DISEASES: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Alcohol abuse poses a significant health risk globally. It contributes substantially to the burden of disease, being the primary cause of more than 30 conditions and a contributing factor to 230 others (WHO 2016). These conditions span cancer , neuropsychiatric disorders , cardiovascular diseases, liver and pancreatic diseases, as well as unintentional and intentional injuries. Understanding these risks may promote low-risk drinking practices. Moreover, alcohol's impact extends beyond the individual drinker, causing social harm and adding to overall societal costs. Effective prevention strategies are urgently needed.