Severe alcohol-related liver disease common in younger Australians
A new report finds rates of alcohol-associated hepatitis had increased drastically during the pandemic and still remain higher than pre-COVID-19 levels, with women and young people identified as at-risk groups.
A new report reveals that rates of alcohol-associated hepatitis have risen dramatically in Victoria, Australia, particularly among younger adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Women now make up one-third of cases in the state. Dylan Allen, who turned 18, began drinking excessively shortly after his birthday, leading to a decline in his health.
His mother, Rachel, noted his personality changed, and he sought help from various rehab programs, though they provided only temporary relief. In 2022, Allen died at 26 due to alcohol-related liver disease. The Burnet Institute's research, funded by FARE, shows the number of people, including those in their 30s, diagnosed with alcohol-associated hepatitis has increased in recent years.
Hospital admissions for both men and women spiked during the pandemic, though rates have since decreased slightly but remain higher than pre-pandemic levels. Young people constitute around 40% of those admitted for alcohol-associated hepatitis, with 13% requiring intensive care and a 4% mortality rate. Lead author Jessica Howell attributes the increase to the severe COVID-19 lockdowns in Victoria, which likely contributed to higher alcohol consumption.
While some young people may be drinking less than previous generations, many are consuming more, including binge drinking, leading to harmful alcohol consumption. Women with alcohol-associated hepatitis tend to be younger, more physically frail, and more likely to need ICU admission than men. The report highlights that women's smaller body mass makes them more susceptible to alcohol-related harm.
FARE's CEO, Ayla Chorley, noted the marketing of alcohol to women through terms like "mummy wine nights," which can normalize excessive drinking. Professor Howell recommends early intervention for those concerned about their drinking, as the liver can regenerate with reduced alcohol consumption, offering significant health benefits.
However, many individuals face stigma and discrimination when seeking help, which can be a critical barrier to receiving proper care.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
