ABSTRACT
A clear dose-response relationship between the level of alcohol use and strokes, liver disease, cancer, and heart disease has been demonstrated in a number of studies. For example, Figure 29.1 summarizes the findings from six studies on the relationship between alcohol use and liver cirrhosis. Persons who drank more than 40 to 60 g per day (three to four standard drinks per day) had a twoto twelve-fold increased risk of liver disease. Overall mortality (including traffic accidents, violent deaths, and cancer) in many epidemiological studies suggests a cut-off of two to four standard drinks per day (i.e., 30 to 60 g per day) for men. Risks for women and older adults appear greater and are reflected in the lower limits of alcohol use recommended for these populations.
