Health Consequences of Chronic Alcohol Use
Alcohol-Induced Liver Damage
- Risk becomes signficant when alcohol consumption exceeds 6.2oz/day for men and 1.55oz/day for women
Alcohol-Induced Changes in the Cardiovascular System
- Reduced risk of CAD with <=2 drinks/day due to increased HDL, inhibition of platelet activity
- 50% greater risk of hypertension with 3-4 drinks/day
Alcohol-Induced Immune System Impairment
- Suppresses proliferation of lymphocytes in blood, spleen, and thymus
- Reduced B cell antibody production
Impaired Endocrine function
- reduced testosterone synthesis and impaired muscle development