Fri Jan 24 19:35:38 IST 2025: ## Even One Drink a Day is Harmful, Warn US Reports; India’s Drinking Culture Faces Scrutiny

**New Delhi, India** – Newly released US federal reports have sent shockwaves globally, declaring that even a single alcoholic drink daily is linked to a range of serious health problems, including liver cirrhosis and several cancers. These findings, which contradict long-held beliefs about moderate alcohol consumption, have prompted calls for a reassessment of drinking habits worldwide, particularly in countries like India where alcohol consumption is rising.

The reports, commissioned ahead of an update to US dietary guidelines, confirm the World Health Organization’s stance that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption. While the liquor industry has criticized the findings, the research underscores the risks for both men and women, with only a reduced risk of ischemic stroke offsetting the increased risks of other serious health issues.

In India, where alcohol consumption has surged in recent decades fueled by rising disposable incomes and changing social norms, the reports have sparked debate. Studies by organizations like the Lancet and India’s National Family Health Survey have already highlighted the increasing prevalence of alcohol consumption, particularly among young people and women, often seen as a symbol of empowerment in urban areas. The post-pandemic surge in social gatherings at restaurants and bars has further exacerbated the trend, with liquor sales hitting record highs during recent holidays.

Experts like Dr. Sajeela Maini, a senior consultant psychologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi, emphasize the alarming increase in alcohol consumption, particularly among young people and women, and call for urgent action to address this “menace.” Research from the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in Bengaluru highlights the irreversible DNA damage caused by alcohol, even after consumption ceases.

While non-alcoholic beer and other alternatives are available, experts caution that these often contain high sugar content, preservatives, or trace amounts of alcohol, making them far from ideal substitutes. Healthier alternatives such as fruit juices, herbal teas, and sparkling water are gaining popularity, offering a more mindful and healthy approach to social drinking.

The high taxation of alcohol by Indian states, historically a significant revenue source, presents a challenge to implementing effective control measures. However, given the mounting evidence of the health risks, calls are growing for the government to rethink its strategies, promoting responsible consumption and supporting those seeking to quit. The reports underscore the urgent need for a broader public health conversation about alcohol’s impact and the development of effective strategies for harm reduction.

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