What is the impact of excessive alcohol consumption on liver health?
Opinion article by José Manuel Ferreira, Vice-President of the Portuguese Association for the Study of the Liver (APEF) .
The liver is essential for the body's metabolism and detoxification, and is involved in the metabolism of alcohol. Excessive and prolonged consumption of alcoholic beverages can seriously compromise its function, leading to the development of various liver diseases. “Alcohol Awareness Week”, which takes place annually in July, is a time to reflect on the impacts of alcohol on various areas of an individual's health and its social implications, and to adopt preventive measures to avoid serious complications. Excessive alcohol consumption is directly associated with various liver pathologies. Alcoholic Hepatic Steatosis, also known as alcoholic fatty liver, is characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver cells and, although often asymptomatic, can progress to more serious stages if alcohol consumption persists. Alcoholic Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that is often fatal in its most severe forms, and may also be accompanied by liver cirrhosis. Excessive, sustained alcohol consumption can lead to the development of Liver Cirrhosis, in which the development of fibrosis (“scars”) in the liver alters its structure, compromising its function and blood circulation through it, with the risk of complications such as digestive hemorrhages, ascites (popularly known as “water belly”), behavioral changes, dysfunction of other organs, infections and the development of liver cancer.
Susceptibility to alcohol-related liver damage can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as genetic predisposition, nutritional status and the presence of other medical conditions. However, the scientific evidence is clear that excessive alcohol intake poses a significant risk to liver health, and is one of the main causes of chronic liver disease globally. Alcohol Awareness Week aims to raise awareness of the negative effects of alcohol not only on health, but also on interpersonal relationships, productivity and quality of life. Under the motto “Alcohol and Cost”, this campaign encourages us to reflect on the harm associated with excessive consumption and to consider lifestyle changes. Prevention is, of course, the best strategy. During this week, several organizations, including the Portuguese Association for the Study of the Liver (APEF), warn of the importance of adopting healthy habits and significantly limiting or even avoiding alcohol consumption.
In short, the relationship between alcohol and the liver is undeniable and often harmful. Alcohol Awareness Week is a time for reflection and education, encouraging us to make more conscious choices to protect our health and improve our personal and social well-being.
Pt jornal
