Alcohol consumption significantly increases the risk of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in individuals with hepatitis B, with the risk rising in a dose-dependent manner.
A review published in Clinical and Translational Hepatology analyzed 45 studies involving 33,272 patients, revealing that heavy drinkers have a 2.27-fold higher risk of cirrhosis and a 2.61-fold higher risk of HCC compared to non-drinkers. Even moderate alcohol intake contributes to disease progression—daily consumption of 12 g of alcohol raises the likelihood of liver cirrhosis by 6.2% and HCC by 11.5%, with the highest risks observed in individuals consuming large quantities of alcohol.
This meta-analysis is the first to establish a clear, dose-dependent link between alcohol intake and the progression of severe liver disease in hepatitis B patients. These findings emphasize the importance of limiting alcohol consumption in this high-risk group to reduce complications and improve long-term health outcomes.
Disclaimer: Medical research data reflects general trends and may not apply to every individual. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice regarding alcohol consumption and liver health.
