A recent Gallup poll reveals that Americans, particularly those under age 35, are shifting their opinions on alcohol consumption, with a growing number believing that moderate drinking is detrimental to health. The survey found that 45% of Americans now think that having one or two alcoholic drinks a day is bad for health, the highest percentage recorded since the poll began in 2001.
Younger adults are leading this change in attitude, with 65% believing that alcohol consumption is unhealthy, compared to 37% of adults ages 35 to 54 and 39% of adults 55 and older. Only 8% of participants reported that they believe moderate drinking has a positive effect on health.
Furthermore, a separate study published in JAMA Network Open examined the health outcomes of more than 135,000 adults aged 60 and older. This study found that there are risks associated with all levels of regular alcohol consumption. Low-risk drinkers had a 10% higher risk of dying from cancer, while moderate-risk drinkers had a 10-15% higher risk of dying from any cause or cancer. High-risk drinkers had a 33% higher risk of dying from cancer, heart disease, and any other cause.
Dr. Timothy Naimi, from the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research at the University of Victoria, emphasized that alcohol is a health hazard and a potent carcinogen. He highlighted the importance of consuming less alcohol for better overall health. The study also noted that individuals who predominantly drank wine or drank with meals had lower risks of cancer and death, suggesting potential benefits beyond alcohol consumption, such as antioxidants found in wine.
This new data underscores the changing perspectives on alcohol use among Americans, especially younger adults, and raises questions about the long-held belief that moderate drinking can be beneficial to health. More research is needed to fully understand the implications of these findings and the potential health risks associated with alcohol consumption.