New research underscores that alcohol may not be the ally many believe it to be, especially as we age. Even light drinking has been linked to an increased risk of cancer-related deaths among older adults, with this risk being particularly significant for those with preexisting health conditions or living in low-income areas.
A study published in JAMA Network Open, which followed more than 135,000 adults aged 60 and older over a 12-year period, also challenges the long-held notion that light or moderate alcohol consumption benefits heart health. Contrary to popular belief, the researchers found no evidence of reduced heart disease deaths among light or moderate drinkers, regardless of their health or socioeconomic status.
The study found that moderate drinking—defined as 20 to 40 grams of alcohol daily for men and 10 to 20 grams for women—was associated with a higher risk of death from all causes, including cancer. In the U.S., a standard drink contains 14 grams of alcohol. Heavier drinking, defined as consuming more than 40 grams per day for men and more than 20 grams for women, was linked to an even higher risk of death from all causes, as well as from cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Interestingly, the study did find that drinking mostly wine and consuming alcohol only with meals appeared to moderate the risk, particularly in relation to cancer deaths. The authors suggested that this reduction in risk might be due to slower alcohol absorption when consumed with food, or it could reflect other healthy lifestyle choices made by these individuals.
“We did not find evidence of a beneficial association between low drinking and [overall] mortality,” as lead study author, Rosario Ortolá told the New York Times.
In short, while the occasional glass of wine with dinner might not seem harmful, this study suggests that the risks associated with alcohol consumption—particularly the increased risk of cancer—may outweigh any potential benefits.
While we love to hear good things about our bad habits, the fact is a bad habit is a bad habit. While not condemning or making a moral judgement on alcohol, it is important to understand the risks that we take when we do drink and that the often popular news we hear from the media is overhyped to get people talking but the fact is alcohol is not good for you in any amounts.
R Ortola et al. Alcohol Consumption Patterns and Mortality Among Older Adults With Health-Related or Socioeconomic Risk Factors. JAMA Network Open (2024). doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.24495
