What Is the Mortality Rate of Alcoholism?

Unveiling the mortality rate of alcoholism: Explore trends, gender disparities, and global perspectives on alcohol-related deaths.

Leora B.H. Staff

March 1, 2024

Understanding Alcoholism Mortality

Alcoholism is a serious condition that can have significant consequences on a person's health and well-being. Understanding the mortality rates associated with alcoholism is essential in recognizing the impact of this disorder on individuals and society as a whole. In this section, we will provide an overview of alcoholism and mortality, as well as explore gender disparities in alcoholism mortality.

Alcoholism and Mortality: An Overview

Alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic disease characterized by an impaired ability to control or stop drinking despite negative consequences. It can lead to a range of physical and mental health issues, and in severe cases, it can result in premature death.

The mortality rate of alcoholism is a measure of the number of deaths caused by or related to alcohol use disorder within a specific population. It takes into account the direct effects of alcohol consumption as well as the indirect consequences of alcohol-related health conditions.

Gender Disparities in Alcoholism Mortality

Gender plays a significant role in alcoholism mortality rates. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, the mortality rate of alcoholism is 1.6 times higher among men than women. This disparity can be attributed to several factors, including the higher frequency of drinking and the higher prevalence of binge drinking among men.

In terms of specific numbers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that in 2019, there were 2.5 times as many deaths from alcohol-induced causes among men (37,429) as among women (14,704). These statistics highlight the gender disparities in the impact of alcoholism on mortality.

It's important to note that the death rates due to alcohol-induced causes increase with age. The CDC reports that persons aged 55–64 and 75 and over have the highest rates of death from alcohol-related causes. Additionally, from 1999 to 2019, the death rate for alcohol-induced causes increased by 43% for males and 85% for females. Among women, the age-adjusted death rate for alcohol-induced causes increased by 85% during this time period.

Understanding the gender disparities in alcoholism mortality can help guide prevention and intervention efforts to address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of both men and women affected by alcohol use disorder. By recognizing the impact of alcoholism on mortality rates, steps can be taken to promote education, early intervention, and access to appropriate treatment resources.

Factors Influencing Alcoholism Mortality

When it comes to understanding the factors that contribute to alcoholism mortality, several key elements come into play. Two significant factors that influence alcoholism mortality are alcohol consumption and its impact on health care utilization, as well as alcohol-related morbidity and mortality.

Alcohol Consumption and Health Care Utilization

Contrary to popular belief, studies have shown that alcohol use is generally associated with decreased health care utilization, regardless of drinking patterns. Moderate alcohol consumption, within the guidelines set by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, has even been linked to potential health benefits and lower health care utilization.

Research has found little evidence to suggest that alcohol use is associated with increased health care utilization. In fact, moderate alcohol consumption has been associated with a negative relationship with health care utilization, indicating potential beneficial effects on health.

To examine the relationship between alcohol consumption and health care utilization, studies have utilized various measures such as quantity-frequency drinking patterns and alcohol problem severity measures. By controlling for demographic characteristics and other variables, researchers have been able to estimate the relationship between drinking patterns and the frequency of health care use.

Alcohol-Related Morbidity and Mortality

Alcohol-related morbidity and mortality also play a significant role in alcoholism mortality rates. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a wide range of health consequences, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and various forms of cancer. These health conditions contribute to alcohol-related mortality.

The impact of alcohol-related morbidity and mortality can vary based on individual factors such as age, gender, and overall health. Certain populations may be more susceptible to the negative health effects of alcohol consumption, which can subsequently increase the risk of mortality.

Understanding the relationship between alcohol consumption, health care utilization, and alcohol-related morbidity and mortality is essential in assessing the overall mortality rate of alcoholism. By acknowledging these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption and seek appropriate support and treatment to reduce the risk of adverse health outcomes.

Please note that this information is intended for general knowledge and should not substitute professional medical advice. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcoholism, it is important to seek help from healthcare professionals or support groups specializing in alcohol addiction.

Alcohol-Related Mortality Rates

Understanding the mortality rates associated with alcoholism is crucial in comprehending the impact of this disorder. In this section, we will explore the trends in alcohol-induced deaths and the age and gender patterns of alcoholism mortality.

Trends in Alcohol-Induced Deaths

The mortality rate for alcohol-induced causes has shown a concerning upward trend. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the age-adjusted death rate for alcohol-induced causes among individuals aged 21 and over increased from 16.9 per 100,000 in 1999 to 25.5 in 2019. This represents a notable 43% increase for males and an alarming 85% increase for females during that period [1].

Age and Gender Patterns of Alcoholism Mortality

Alcohol-related mortality rates vary by age and gender, shedding light on the demographics most affected by this disorder. The CDC reports that deaths due to alcohol-induced causes increase with age, with individuals aged 55-64 and 75 and over experiencing the highest rates of death. This highlights the significance of addressing alcoholism and its consequences among older populations.

In terms of gender disparities, in 2019, there were 2.5 times as many deaths from alcohol-induced causes among men (37,429) as among women (14,704) [1]. However, it is important to note that the age-adjusted death rate for alcohol-induced causes among women has been increasing at a concerning rate. From 1999 to 2019, the death rate for alcohol-induced causes among women increased by 85%, rising from 4.6 per 100,000 to 8.5 per 100,000.

Understanding these age and gender patterns is crucial for addressing the unique challenges and risks associated with alcoholism among different populations. By recognizing the trends and patterns in alcohol-related mortality rates, we can implement targeted interventions and prevention strategies to reduce the devastating impact of alcoholism on individuals and communities.

Health Consequences of Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) not only poses significant challenges to individuals struggling with it but also has profound health consequences. In this section, we will explore the impact of alcohol use disorder on life expectancy and the causes of death associated with this condition.

Alcohol Use Disorder and Life Expectancy

Research conducted in Denmark, Finland, and Sweden found that individuals with alcohol use disorder had a significantly shorter life expectancy compared to the general population. The difference in life expectancy increased over time for men in Denmark, Finland, and Sweden, while it varied for women. From 1987 to 2006, the life expectancy difference for men increased, ranging from 1.8 to 2.6 years, whereas for women, it increased in Denmark but decreased in Finland and Sweden.

People hospitalized with alcohol use disorder were found to have an average life expectancy of 47-53 years for men and 50-58 years for women, resulting in an early death of 24-28 years compared to individuals in the general population. These statistics highlight the severity of the impact of alcohol use disorder on an individual's lifespan.

Alcohol Use Disorder and Causes of Death

Individuals with alcohol use disorder face increased mortality rates from all causes of death, including diseases, medical conditions, and suicide. A meta-analysis encompassing 81 observational studies across various countries revealed that individuals with alcohol use disorder have a three-fold higher mortality rate in men and a four-fold higher mortality rate in women compared to the general population.

The causes of death associated with alcohol use disorder vary, but they consistently demonstrate higher mortality rates across all categories. These mortality rates are observed to be higher in women, younger individuals, and those undergoing addiction treatment.

Understanding the impact of alcohol use disorder on life expectancy and causes of death highlights the urgency for early intervention and effective treatment. It is crucial for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder to seek help and support to mitigate the health risks and improve their overall well-being. Additionally, implementing alcohol-related policies and interventions can play a significant role in curbing the negative health consequences associated with alcohol use disorder and reducing mortality rates.

Global Perspective on Alcoholism Mortality

Alcoholism mortality rates can vary significantly around the world, reflecting the impact of alcohol use disorders on public health. Understanding these global patterns and the influence of alcohol policies is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by alcohol-related deaths.

Alcoholism Mortality Rates Around the World

According to a study published in Nature, the global age-standardized mortality rate due to alcohol use disorders was estimated at 9.6 per 100,000 individuals in 2019 [4]. However, it is important to note that this rate varied considerably across countries. Central and Eastern European countries reported the highest rates, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in these regions.

To provide a broader perspective, it is worth noting that in low- and middle-income countries, a significant proportion of total deaths were attributed to alcohol use disorders in 2019. The age-standardized mortality rates in these countries ranged from 1.9 to 29.5 per 100,000 individuals. These figures emphasize the global impact of alcoholism on mortality rates.

Impact of Alcohol Policies on Mortality Rates

Alcohol policies play a crucial role in shaping alcoholism mortality rates. Implementing effective public health interventions is essential to reduce the burden of alcohol-related deaths. By examining the relationship between alcohol policies and mortality rates, policymakers can identify strategies to mitigate the risks associated with alcohol use disorders.

While specific policies may vary between countries, some common measures include restrictions on alcohol availability, pricing controls, advertising regulations, and education campaigns. These policies aim to reduce harmful alcohol consumption, prevent alcohol-related diseases, and ultimately decrease mortality rates.

It is important to note that the effectiveness of alcohol policies in reducing alcoholism mortality rates can vary based on the context and implementation. Regular evaluation and adaptation of these policies are necessary to ensure their impact on public health.

Understanding the global perspective of alcoholism mortality rates provides vital insights into the magnitude of the problem and the disparities across different regions. By addressing the factors contributing to these rates and implementing evidence-based alcohol policies, societies can strive towards reducing the burden of alcohol-related deaths and improving public health outcomes.