Alcoholism

More than two million Australian middle-aged men drinking at risky levels

Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases are primary drivers of excess US deaths compared to other high-income countries

Updated alcohol warning labels may prompt people to cut back: Study

A new study found that updated alcohol warning labels, including those highlighting cancer risk, can better motivate consumers to cut back on drinking. The study used a nationally representative sample of adults and found that the new labels outperformed the current U.S. warning label in encouraging participants to drink less.

Alcohol use and epilepsy risk – role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs)

Research reveals a causal link between alcohol consumption and epilepsy risk via neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation. MPO inhibition shows promise in reducing seizure susceptibility.

New research shows risks of combining cannabis edibles and alcohol behind the wheel

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that combining cannabis edibles and alcohol worsens driving impairment compared to consuming either substance alone. The research highlights the urgent need for wider public education about augmented effects from co-use and improved roadside detection methods.

Heavy drinking, alcohol use disorder, and obesity

A nationally representative study found nearly 1 in 10 U.S. adults with heavy drinking and obesity conditions, highlighting the need for preventive efforts in younger and middle-aged adults without insurance or Medicaid coverage to curb rising rates of alcohol-associated liver disease deaths.

Brain mechanisms may vary depending on how long alcohol use occurs

Research in mice reveals direct gene regulation by alcohol metabolites, with varying effects on brain regions and exposure durations. Short-term exposure influences more genes and epigenetic programs compared to lengthy exposure.

Lasting income costs of mental and physical illness

A study estimated income losses from individual perspectives in Denmark from 2000 to 2023 after hospital diagnoses of depression, alcohol use disorder, stroke, and breast cancer. The researchers found that income losses were largest for mental disorders, with average losses growing over time, particularly among younger individuals.

UMass Amherst research links early adult drinking to middle age cognitive decline

Researchers found that early adult drinking combined with stress leads to cognitive decline in middle age, with brains damaged beyond recovery. Heavy drinking rewires the brain's circuitry, impairing decision-making and increasing risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

GLP-1 medications get at the heart of addiction: study

Researchers found that GLP-1 medications are effective at reducing the risk of developing substance use disorders across all major addictive substances, including a 14% reduced risk for developing any substance use disorder. The study also showed significant reductions in severe harm, including overdose and death, among patients with p...

Genetic risk for mental illness is far less disorder-specific than clinicians have assumed, massive Swedish study reveals

A massive Swedish study of over 2 million individuals reveals that genetic risk for mental illness is far less disorder-specific than clinicians have assumed. Schizophrenia shows the highest genetic specificity, while drug use disorder has a much lower specificity, scattering its genetic risk across multiple conditions.

Exploring why some people may prefer alcohol over other rewards

A new study using rats found that a specific brain region, the anterior insula, is more active during actions related to alcohol consumption. This bias in decision-making may be involved in prioritizing alcohol over other rewards, potentially shedding light on the neural underpinnings of alcohol use disorders.

New blood test score detects hidden alcohol-related liver disease

A new blood test score, MetALD-ALD Prediction Index (MAPI), has been developed to identify when fatty liver disease is driven by excessive alcohol use. The tool uses five standard lab values and can estimate whether a person with fatty liver disease may have alcohol-related liver injury.

Urine tests confirm alcohol consumption in wild African chimpanzees

A recent study has confirmed that wild African chimpanzees consume significant quantities of alcohol, with 17 out of 20 urine samples containing ethyl glucuronide, a metabolic byproduct of ethanol. The chimps' diet likely consists of fermented fruits, which provide around 14 grams of ethanol per day.

Zero-alcohol ads hook teens

A study of 382 adolescents aged 15–17 found that zero-alcohol advertisements significantly increased their intentions to try full-strength versions. Teenagers who liked the ads showed more positive attitudes toward the brands and clearer intentions to drink.

Spiritual practices strongly associated with reduced risk for hazardous alcohol and drug use

A meta-analysis of longitudinal studies found that broad spiritual practices, such as attending religious services and meditation, were associated with a 13% reduced risk of hazardous drug and alcohol use. This reduction was greater (18%) among individuals attending religious services at least once per week.

Spirituality and harmful or hazardous alcohol and other drug use

A meta-analysis of 55 studies found a significant protective association between spirituality and hazardous alcohol and drug use. The study suggests that spiritual practices may be effective in preventing or reducing the risks associated with these substances.

Ketamine high NOT related to treatment success for people with alcohol problems, study finds

A new study from King's College London and the University of Exeter found that ketamine's therapeutic benefits for people with alcohol use disorder may not be linked to its psychoactive effects. Instead, other factors such as brain network alterations and neural connections may play a role in the treatment's success.

Parents’ alcohol and drug use influences their children’s consumption, research shows

A Brazilian study analyzing 4,280 adolescents and their guardians found that parental attitudes play a significant role in preventing alcohol and drug use among young people. The 'authoritative' parenting style, which combines acceptance and monitoring, is the most effective in mitigating the risk of repeated consumption patterns.

Chronic alcohol use reshapes gene expression in key human brain regions linked to relapse vulnerability and neural damage

Chronic alcohol consumption alters endocannabinoid gene expression in reward- and decision-related brain regions, offering insights into addiction biology. This study reveals changes in CB1 and CB2 receptor genes, as well as GPR55 and FAAH enzymes, potentially leading to targeted therapeutic strategies.

How experiences in the womb affect alcohol drinking in adulthood

A study found that prenatal alcohol exposure changed aspects of the dopamine system in rhesus monkeys, influencing how quickly they drank alcohol in adulthood. The researchers also discovered individualized neuroadaptive responses to drinking, which may promote the transition to alcohol use disorder.

Sex and all-cause mortality in the US, 1999 to 2019

A cohort study of 47,000 adults found that males had a 63% greater risk of all-cause mortality compared to females after adjusting for demographic and behavioral factors. The study suggests intrinsic biological factors, such as sex hormones or immune response, may contribute to these sex differences in mortality.

UH psychologist explores reducing anxiety among survivors of sexual assault

A UH psychologist's study finds that anxiety sensitivity and pain-related anxiety are linked to mental health problems and clinically significant alcohol use among survivors of traumatic sexual assault. The investigation highlights the importance of addressing both types of anxiety in reducing the risk of lifelong challenges.

How does lifetime alcohol consumption affect colorectal cancer risk?

Research reveals that higher lifetime alcohol consumption is associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer, especially for rectal cancer. Quitting drinking can lower a person’s risk, according to the findings published in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal.

Many drug-use treatment providers in N.C. demand unpaid labor, limit access to evidence-based treatment

A new study in NC found that many residential substance-use service providers require patients to engage in unpaid labor, restricting access to evidence-based treatment. Providers with labor requirements are less likely to offer recommended treatment and more likely to operate without a state license.

CBD treatment reverses key effects of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in a mouse model

A preclinical study shows that cannabidiol restores emotional behavior, reduces alcohol-related vulnerability, and reverses gut microbiota alterations caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. Female mice particularly benefited from CBD treatment, which normalized their emotional alterations and eliminated vulnerability to alcohol addiction.

Work hard, play hard?

A study published in Drug and Alcohol Review journal reveals that workplace factors like long hours, work-related stress, and shift work do not solely drive high-risk drinking. Personal and social factors have an even greater impact on alcohol consumption among workers. The research analyzed over two decades of data from the Household ...

Smartphone-based interventions show promise for reducing alcohol and cannabis use: New research

New research suggests that mobile health interventions tailored to individual needs can reduce harms associated with heavy drinking and cannabis use. Studies demonstrate the effectiveness of personalized feedback and protective behavioral strategies in reducing substance use risks, paving the way for innovative digital interventions.

Using rare sugars to address alcoholism

A new protocol models alcoholism in mice and shows that stimulating the FGF21-oxytocin-dopamine system with rare sugars can reduce alcohol consumption. The researchers believe that this system may play a role in regulating subconscious information processing, leading to effective dietary therapy for reducing over-drinking.

New brain study explains how binge drinking contributes to long-lasting negative feelings

Research found that prolonged heavy drinking induces neuroinflammation, promoting negative emotional states lasting for weeks into abstinence. Inhibiting proinflammatory microglia activation during alcohol exposure blocks the development of anxiety and fear memory.

Alcohol-related hospitalizations from 2016 to 2022

The study found a significant increase in alcohol-related hospitalizations between 2016 and 2022, with rising mortality rates and extended lengths of stay. Preventive efforts are needed to reduce population-level alcohol consumption and improve treatment outcomes for individuals with alcohol use disorder.

Study uncovers disrupted brain balance in alcohol dependence

Researchers found altered gene expression in the brain's stress-processing hub, and inhibiting signaling pathways reduced relapse-like behavior. However, blocking both signals simultaneously cancelled this effect, highlighting potential risks of combining treatments.

Raising legal drinking age improves academic performance and mental health

A new study finds that raising the minimum legal drinking age from 16 to 18 years significantly improves academic performance and mental health among European teenagers. The research, conducted by Carmen Villa, shows a decrease in binge drinking and intoxication, leading to better PISA exam scores and reduced anxiety medication use.

Could AI help primary care clinics spot risky drinking habits?

A study published by Michigan Medicine suggests that AI can help increase the chance of people with risky drinking patterns or signs of alcohol use disorder getting outreach and help. The NLP tool analyzed full text of health records and identified over 47,500 patients with some sign of risky drinking.

Thinking of Dry January? One month without alcohol linked to better sleep, mood and health, study finds

A new review of 'Dry January' found that even a short break from alcohol can lead to meaningful physical and psychological improvements. Participants reported improved sleep, better mood, weight loss, and healthier liver function.

Study finds take-home methadone at hospital discharge can be a critical turning point in opioid recovery

A new study found that nearly half of patients discharged with take-home methadone successfully connected to treatment within 72 hours. The likelihood of successful follow-up increased if patients were already enrolled in an OTP or received higher methadone doses.

Early brain differences may explain sex-specific risks for addiction

A new study from Weill Cornell Medicine reveals distinct patterns of brain activity between boys and girls with a family history of substance use disorder, suggesting separate predispositions for addiction. Girls with a family history displayed higher transition energy in the default-mode network, indicating greater difficulty disengag...

As ‘California sober’ catches on, study suggests cannabis use reduces short-term alcohol consumption

A new study found that smoking marijuana can temporarily cut down how much people drink, with participants reducing their alcohol intake by 19-27% when using cannabis. However, the researchers caution that more study is needed to determine long-term effects and potential risks of cannabis use.

New molecule reduces ethanol intake and drinking motivation in mice, with sex-dependent differences

A new compound MCH11, a monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor, shows promising effects in reducing alcohol consumption and motivation to drink in mice. The molecule exhibits anxiolytic and antidepressant properties with sex-dependent efficacy, correcting genetic alterations associated with alcohol use disorder.

Preclinical support for using psychedelics to treat alcohol use disorders

Researchers discovered psilocin's mechanism to reduce alcohol use in female mice by dampening activity of neurons in the central amygdala, leading to decreased drinking. This finding provides mechanistic insight into psychedelic treatment for psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety.

More than a hangover: Heavy drinking linked to earlier, more severe stroke

Researchers found that heavy drinkers experienced strokes a decade earlier and with greater severity than non-heavy drinkers. Heavy drinking was also linked to signs of cerebral small vessel disease, which causes long-term brain damage.

Increased risk of developing alcohol addiction linked to gene mutation

A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that mutations in the CHRNA3 gene are associated with lowered sensitivity to alcohol and delayed avoidance behavior. This suggests that normal function of the chrna3 gene helps control alcohol exposure, leading to individual differences in alcohol sensitivity.

Spanish-language counseling cuts heavy drinking among latinx adults by 22%, UC San Diego study finds

A culturally adapted behavioral intervention delivered in Spanish by community health workers significantly reduced unhealthy alcohol use among Latinx adults. Participants showed nearly twice the reduction in heavy drinking days compared to those who received an educational booklet.

Drinking through the generations

A new study by Flinders University found that abstention from alcohol is on the rise, particularly among younger cohorts, with Generation Z nearly 20 times more likely to choose not to drink compared to Baby Boomers. The study suggests a clear generational shift, with declining weekly alcohol consumption and changing social norms drivi...

Study finds altering one area of the brain could rid alcohol withdrawal symptoms

Researchers at Washington State University have discovered that altering brain function in the cerebellum region can ease physical and emotional symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. The study used genetic tools and a synthetic compound to achieve this, offering a promising new approach to treating alcohol use disorder.

Japan’s national standardized health checkup program: impacts on self-employed and unemployed populations

The SHC-SHG program leads to a 16% reduction in LRDs among self-employed individuals, while unemployed individuals show significant behavioral changes but not health improvements. The increase in municipal funds is found to be cost-effective, with overall medical expenses reduced by nine times the increase.

Alcohol consumption per capita and suicide

A systematic review and meta-analysis found a strong association between alcohol consumption per capita and an increase in suicide mortality rates. The study suggests that targeting alcohol consumption may be a useful strategy for comprehensive national suicide prevention efforts.

In the wild, chimpanzees likely ingest the equivalent of several alcoholic drinks every day

Researchers at UC Berkeley find that chimpanzees consume about 14 grams of pure ethanol per day, equivalent to one standard American drink. This chronic exposure suggests a dietary heritage of alcohol from our common ancestor with chimpanzees.

Researchers find brain region that fuels compulsive drinking

A new study by Scripps Research scientists reveals that a small midline brain region plays a key role in how animals learn to continue drinking to avoid withdrawal symptoms. This brain pathway is responsible for driving strong relapse behavior, making it a crucial target for developing new treatments for substance use disorders.

UIC researchers awarded $8.3M federal grant to study alcohol use disorder

A UIC researcher team led by Dr. Subhash C. Pandey will investigate how long-term alcohol use affects the structure and function of brain cells, aiming to improve targeted treatments for alcohol use disorder. The grant renewal aims to fuel cutting-edge research into cellular interaction in areas key to alcohol addiction.

College drinking linked to poor academics, mental health for those around the drinker: Study

A new study finds that college students who are exposed to a drinker's poor behavior experience lower grades, mental distress, and suicidal thoughts. The researchers surveyed 1,822 students and found that being harassed or physically harmed was associated with poor academic performance and worse mental health.

Study reveals beneficial effects of diet and exercise on alcohol-related adverse liver health

A comprehensive study published in the Journal of Hepatology shows that healthy eating and increased physical activity significantly lower the risk of liver-related death, even among heavy and binge drinkers. The research analyzed data from over 60,000 US adults and found that adherence to high levels of physical activity and/or diet q...

Research alert: Alcohol opens the floodgates for bad bacteria

Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that chronic alcohol use impairs gut bacterial regulation. This allows bacteria to migrate to the liver, worsening ALD. Targeting this mechanism with existing drugs may provide a new approach to minimizing liver damage from alcohol use.

Analyzing the micromovements of recovering alcoholics in response to stimuli, along with their reaction times, might help predict if they will relapse following treatment

A study investigated approach/avoidance tendencies in male AUD patients through a gait initiation task, using posturography. The findings suggest that analyzing micromovements and reaction times may help predict if individuals will relapse following treatment.

Study: Affordable trial programs prevented youth substance misuse

Researchers at Emory University developed two affordable programs to prevent youth substance misuse: Connect Kits for Family Action and Connect Brief Intervention. A randomized trial found that these programs reduced alcohol and other substance use among high school students in rural Oklahoma.

UofL research shows combined exposure to alcohol and “forever chemicals” increases liver damage

A study from University of Louisville researchers found that perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) can worsen liver damage when combined with alcohol consumption. The study showed that PFOS exposure can increase fat accumulation and markers of liver damage, disrupt the liver's ability to manage fats, and activate pathways that promote liver...

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome linked to worse surgical outcomes, higher costs

A nationwide study found that alcohol withdrawal syndrome significantly increases risks of complications and longer hospital stays after major surgery. Proactive screening and multidisciplinary care can help prevent such complications.

AI serves as ‘crystal ball’ for predicting outcomes in hospitalized cirrhosis patients

Researchers used machine learning to predict patient outcomes in hospitalized cirrhosis patients, outperforming traditional methods. The study found that AI can help hospital teams triage and prioritize patients more effectively.

Be Well Texas at UT Health San Antonio to lead major statewide expansion of opioid use disorder and recovery services

The Be Well Texas initiative, led by the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, will expand access to opioid use disorder treatment services and recovery support across rural and urban communities. This major statewide expansion aims to reduce overdose deaths and build a lasting recovery infrastructure.

Women more susceptible to certain subjective effects of alcohol during binge drinking episodes

A clinical trial found that women experience stronger subjective effects of acute alcohol intake, such as drunkenness and sedation, compared to men. The study adjusted doses to achieve identical blood alcohol concentrations for both sexes, revealing that women's effects were more intense.