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Adverse Effects of Alcohol Consumption on Body Tissues and General Health: A Medical Perspective
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Bahman Yousefi    , Mehran Molavand * |
| Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran , mehranmolavand@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (42 Views) |
Background and aim: Alcohol consumption is widely recognized as one of the most significant public health threats globally, associated with a considerable burden of disease and mortality. The present article adopts a medical perspective to examine the adverse effects of alcohol on various body tissues and to elucidate the biological mechanisms involved in alcohol-induced tissue damage.
Materials and methods: This review is based on epidemiological evidence, findings from preclinical studies and clinical trials, and reports from reputable international organizations such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the World Cancer Research Fund. It additionally examines the principal pathophysiological mechanisms.
Findings: Epidemiological evidence indicates that alcohol consumption is directly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, various types of cancer, musculoskeletal disorders, brain injury, and liver diseases. Key pathophysiological mechanisms include the metabolism of alcohol into the toxic compound acetaldehyde, induction of oxidative stress, activation of chronic inflammatory pathways, impairment of DNA repair and synthesis, and alterations in epigenetic regulation. Even moderate alcohol consumption can lead to cumulative and, in some cases, irreversible tissue damage.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that alcohol consumption, even in moderate amounts, can cause serious and sometimes permanent damage to body tissues. This article emphasizes the necessity of implementing preventive strategies, including raising public awareness, community-based interventions, and policies aimed at restricting access to alcohol. Analytical tables and figures are incorporated throughout the manuscript to provide clearer mechanistic insights and statistical evidence. |
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| Keywords: Alcohol, Harmful effects, Health, body tissues, Cancer, Heart disease, Inflammation, Oxidative stress |
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Full-Text [PDF 1136 kb]
(18 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Review Article |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2026/02/24 | Accepted: 2026/05/30 | Published: 2026/06/8
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