Exploring the decline in alcohol consumption among young adults, the link between alcohol and cancer risk, the association between drinking and life expectancy, the rise of sober bars and non-alcoholic drinks, the emergence of the straight-edge movement, and the changing acceptance of sobriety.
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Quick takeaways
Young adults in the US are increasingly less likely to drink alcohol in the past two decades.
Moderate alcohol consumption can increase the risk of alcohol-related deaths, so reducing alcohol consumption is recommended.
Deep dives
Young adults are drinking less
According to Gallup polling, young adults in the United States have become progressively less likely to use alcohol over the past two decades. The percentage of 18 to 34-year-olds who report drinking in the past week or drinking more than they should has decreased.
Alcohol's impact on health
Alcohol consumption is linked to a range of health issues, including heart disease, various types of cancer, stomach and intestinal problems, liver problems, and increased risk of injuries or accidents. The risks are influenced by both the amount consumed on a single occasion and the average consumption.
Benefits of reduced alcohol consumption
The study emphasizes that drinking less alcohol is better for one's health. While previous studies suggested that moderate alcohol consumption has health benefits, recent research indicates that even moderate levels of alcohol consumption can increase the risk of alcohol-related deaths. The current study recommends reducing alcohol consumption, and this advice is consistent with research conducted over the past 20 years.
The start of a new year is increasingly a time when people choose to abstain from drinking for a month. We’re using the moment as an opportunity to revisit an episode from last year, about new health guidelines in Canada that raise questions about whether there’s any safe amount of alcohol to consume.
This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn and Miles Bryan, edited by Matt Collette, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Efim Shapiro, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.