Alcohol use

Alcohol use is a major risk factor for death and disability worldwide. It is ranked among other risks such as high blood pressure, smoking, and dietary risks. In some countries, alcohol use is the number one risk factor for men. 

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1.34 billion people consumed harmful amounts of alcohol in 2020.
49.3% of cirrhosis and other liver diseases are attributable to alcohol use.
2.4 million deaths were attributable to alcohol use disorders in 2019.
76.7% of people who consumed harmful amounts of alcohol were male.

Interactive data visuals

GBD Compare

Compare trends in alcohol use and its contribution to deaths and disability due to causes like heart disease and stroke.

Datasets in our catalog

Visit the Global Health Data Exchange (GHDx) to download our estimates and data sources for alcohol use.

Scientific Publication

Population-level risks of alcohol consumption by amount, geography, age, sex, and year

Publications

Infographics

Related

Health topic

Diet