Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Is It Just A Summer Cold Or The NB.1.8.1 Covid Variant? How To Tell When The Symptoms Are Nearly Identical

As the summer sun rises high, everyone anticipates relief from seasonal sniffles. Yet increasingly, more and more people are falling ill with cold-like symptoms in warmer weather too. The twist? A new Covid strain—NB.1.8.1—is spreading low-key around the world, from Asia to America and the UK. The challenge is distinguishing between a run-of-the-mill summer cold and a COVID-19 infection.

Typically, respiratory illnesses peak in the colder months when more time is spent indoors and dry air allows viruses to be more easily susceptible. Summer, however, is not virus-free. Parainfluenza virus Type 3, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and even rhinoviruses are still causing issues in warmer climates. Social events, travel, lack of rest, more alcohol consumption, and air conditioning all set the stage for infections.

Complicating the situation further this summer is the discovery of the NB.1.8.1 Covid strain. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) only recently started monitoring it, scientists are closely monitoring its trajectory and possible implications.

Initially discovered in China in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 has a number of mutations that have caught the eye of the world's health authorities. The good news? There is as yet no evidence to suggest it results in more serious disease. In fact, U.K. Health Security Agency statistics indicate a modest rise in COVID cases with 5.2% of patients positive—up from 4.5% last week.

To date, just 13 of the confirmed NB.1.8.1 cases in the U.K. have been sequenced, the majority of them in April and May. While uncommon at present, the fact that it shares features with other variants of Covid means caution is still crucial.

<h2>Summer Colds vs. NB.1.8.1 Covid: Why It's Hard to Tell the Difference?</h2>

Both summer colds and Covid-19 have common symptoms such as:

<ul><li>Sore throat</li><li>Nasal congestion or runny nose</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Muscle aches</li><li>Nausea or vomiting</li></ul>

However some symptoms will tend more towards Covid, such as:

<ul><li>Fever or chills</li><li>Shortness of breath</li><li>Loss of taste or smell, new</li><li>Gastrointestinal illness such as diarrhea</li></ul>

There is no guaranteed way to tell the difference between a summer cold and Covid without doing a diagnostic test. Mild COVID-19 symptoms are easily mistaken for other seasonal viruses.

Colds—seasonal or not—are viral illnesses that are transmitted by respiratory droplets, fomites (contaminated surfaces), or close proximity. The main culprits are rhinoviruses, especially during the winter months, but the warmer months experience an upsurge in viruses such as parainfluenza, enteroviruses (coxsackie and echovirus), and adenoviruses.

Summer activities—weddings, concerts, holidays—promote intimate contact between groups, and typical summer behaviors such as drinking, bad sleep, and poor diet compromise immune systems. Air conditioning units, by dehydrating nasal passages, also impair the body's resistance to viral invaders.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges anyone with cold-like symptoms to monitor closely. Covid-19 symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure and vary from mild to severe. The virus can be contagious two days before symptoms emerge and up to 10 days—or more—in immunocompromised individuals.

If you’re feeling unwell, the best course of action is to:

<ul><li>Stay home and rest</li><li>Wear a mask if around others</li><li>Get a COVID-19 test</li><li>Talk to your healthcare provider</li></ul>

Timely treatment, such as antiviral therapy with Paxlovid, is ensured through accurate diagnosis, particularly among high-risk individuals.

<h2>Can Vaccines Protect Against NB.1.8.1?</h2>

While a newer vaccine aimed at fall variants is being developed, the existing vaccines remain protective against NB.1.8.1. The variant is of the "drifter" type from the Omicron lineage, which indicates earlier immunity could still help prevent severe disease.

Dr. Aaron Chen, a Johns Hopkins University virologist, observes, "Although mutation is unavoidable, current vaccines remain effective in preventing hospitalization and complications from new variants, such as NB.1.8.1."

<h2>How To Avoid Getting Sick This Summer?</h2>

There's no surefire way to completely avoid viruses, unfortunately. But here are some practical tips from experts:

<ul><li>Drink plenty of water and moderate your booze</li><li>Consume a nutrient-dense diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins</li><li>Get good rest and reduce stress levels</li><li>Clean those surfaces that are touched most often such as airplane trays, phones, and exercise equipment</li><li>Supplement with vitamin D if one is deficient since it enhances immune function</li><li>Wash hands frequently, do not share food or beverages, and wear a mask in public indoor areas</li></ul>

Most people recover from summer colds and mild Covid-19 at home. Supportive care—hydration, over-the-counter pain relief, and rest—is typically enough. Nasal decongestants and lozenges can ease symptoms, while more serious or persistent cases warrant medical consultation.

If you suspect Covid, getting tested is crucial—not only for your health but for the wellbeing of those around you.

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As the summer sun rises high, everyone anticipates relief from seasonal sniffles. Yet increasingly, more and more people are falling ill with cold-like symptoms in warmer weather too. The twist? A new Covid strain—NB.1.8.1—is spreading low-key around the world, from Asia to America and the UK. The challenge is distinguishing between a run-of-the-mill summer cold and a COVID-19 infection.Typically, respiratory illnesses peak in the colder months when more time is spent indoors and dry air allows viruses to be more easily susceptible. Summer, however, is not virus-free. Parainfluenza virus Type 3, enteroviruses, adenoviruses, and even rhinoviruses are still causing issues in warmer climates. Social events, travel, lack of rest, more alcohol consumption, and air conditioning all set the stage for infections.Complicating the situation further this summer is the discovery of the NB.1.8.1 Covid strain. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) only recently started monitoring it, scientists are closely monitoring its trajectory and possible implications.Initially discovered in China in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 has a number of mutations that have caught the eye of the world's health authorities. The good news? There is as yet no evidence to suggest it results in more serious disease. In fact, U.K. Health Security Agency statistics indicate a modest rise in COVID cases with 5.2% of patients positive—up from 4.5% last week.To date, just 13 of the confirmed NB.1.8.1 cases in the U.K. have been sequenced, the majority of them in April and May. While uncommon at present, the fact that it shares features with other variants of Covid means caution is still crucial.Summer Colds vs. NB.1.8.1 Covid: Why It's Hard to Tell the Difference?Both summer colds and Covid-19 have common symptoms such as:Sore throatNasal congestion or runny noseFatigueMuscle achesNausea or vomitingHowever some symptoms will tend more towards Covid, such as:Fever or chillsShortness of breathLoss of taste or smell, newGastrointestinal illness such as diarrheaThere is no guaranteed way to tell the difference between a summer cold and Covid without doing a diagnostic test. Mild COVID-19 symptoms are easily mistaken for other seasonal viruses.What Exactly Is a Summer Cold?Colds—seasonal or not—are viral illnesses that are transmitted by respiratory droplets, fomites (contaminated surfaces), or close proximity. The main culprits are rhinoviruses, especially during the winter months, but the warmer months experience an upsurge in viruses such as parainfluenza, enteroviruses (coxsackie and echovirus), and adenoviruses.Summer activities—weddings, concerts, holidays—promote intimate contact between groups, and typical summer behaviors such as drinking, bad sleep, and poor diet compromise immune systems. Air conditioning units, by dehydrating nasal passages, also impair the body's resistance to viral invaders.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges anyone with cold-like symptoms to monitor closely. Covid-19 symptoms can appear two to 14 days after exposure and vary from mild to severe. The virus can be contagious two days before symptoms emerge and up to 10 days—or more—in immunocompromised individuals.If you’re feeling unwell, the best course of action is to:Stay home and restWear a mask if around othersGet a COVID-19 testTalk to your healthcare providerTimely treatment, such as antiviral therapy with Paxlovid, is ensured through accurate diagnosis, particularly among high-risk individuals.Can Vaccines Protect Against NB.1.8.1?While a newer vaccine aimed at fall variants is being developed, the existing vaccines remain protective against NB.1.8.1. The variant is of the "drifter" type from the Omicron lineage, which indicates earlier immunity could still help prevent severe disease.Dr. Aaron Chen, a Johns Hopkins University virologist, observes, "Although mutation is unavoidable, current vaccines remain effective in preventing hospitalization and complications from new variants, such as NB.1.8.1."How To Avoid Getting Sick This Summer?There's no surefire way to completely avoid viruses, unfortunately. But here are some practical tips from experts:Drink plenty of water and moderate your boozeConsume a nutrient-dense diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteinsGet good rest and reduce stress levelsClean those surfaces that are touched most often such as airplane trays, phones, and exercise equipmentSupplement with vitamin D if one is deficient since it enhances immune functionWash hands frequently, do not share food or beverages, and wear a mask in public indoor areasWhat If You Do Get Sick?Most people recover from summer colds and mild Covid-19 at home. Supportive care—hydration, over-the-counter pain relief, and rest—is typically enough. Nasal decongestants and lozenges can ease symptoms, while more serious or persistent cases warrant medical consultation.If you suspect Covid, getting tested is crucial—not only for your health but for the wellbeing of those around you.

is it just a summer cold or the nb.1.8.1 covid variant? how to tell when the symptoms are nearly identical

Ishita Roy

What all must you know before you donate blood?

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On <span>World Blood Donor Day</span>, observed every year on June 14, the spotlight turns to the vital act of <span>blood donation</span>—an effort that saves millions of lives each year. Yet, many potential donors still hold back due to confusion or misinformation. To help clear the air, we spoke to Dr. Sangeeta Pathak, Director and Head of Transfusion Medicine at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, about the do’s and don’ts of blood donation. Here’s what we learned.

<strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/who-can-donate-blood-to-whom-article-151105034" data-type="tilCustomLink">Who Can Donate Blood To Whom?</a></strong>

<h4>Can Women Donate Blood During Their Period?</h4>

This is one of the most common concerns, especially among first-time female donors. According to Dr. Pathak, as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, women are advised not to donate during their menstruation, particularly during the 4-5 days of active bleeding. However, they are completely eligible to donate at any other time of the month if they are in good health.

<h4>What If You’re Recovering from Illness or Taking Medication?</h4>

Health is key when it comes to blood donation. “A person should be completely healthy and free from fever or illness at the time of donation,” says Dr. Pathak. Moreover, certain medications can lead to deferral, and there is a comprehensive list maintained under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. So if you’re on a prescribed course, it’s best to consult a doctor or the blood bank before donating.

<h4>Alcohol, Smoking and Blood Donation—What’s the Deal?</h4>

While an occasional drinker may not be entirely disqualified, heavy alcohol consumption is a red flag. “Anyone who is under the influence or shows signs of intoxication should not be donating blood,” Dr. Pathak warns. Ideally, toxic substances like alcohol or nicotine should be avoided for several hours before donation, and if there is an emergency and the only available donor has consumed alcohol recently, it's safest to look for another eligible person.

<h4>Basic Eligibility: Age, Weight, and Health</h4>

<ul><li>To donate blood in India, you must be:</li><li>18 to 65 years old (first-time donors should not be older than 60)</li><li>Weigh at least 45 kg (for 350 ml of whole blood)</li><li>Hemoglobin levels of at least 12.5 gm/dl</li></ul>

For apheresis (platelet or plasma donation), the minimum weight is 50 kg, and the age range is 18 to 60 years. Chronic illnesses and poor general health are automatic grounds for deferral.

<h4>Tattoos and Piercings: Are You Temporarily Ineligible?</h4>

Yes. If you’ve recently had a tattoo or body piercing, you’ll need to wait 12 months before you can donate blood. This is a precautionary step to ensure there’s no risk of transmitting infections.

<strong>TO KNOW MORE, READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/how-long-after-a-tattoo-or-piercing-can-i-donate-blood-article-151210770" data-type="tilCustomLink">How Long After a Tattoo or Piercing Can I Donate Blood?</a></strong>

<h4>What to Eat (or Avoid) Before and After Donation</h4>

A proper meal before donating is important, but fasting is not advised. “The donor should not be on an empty stomach, and their last meal should be at least four hours before donation,” explains Dr. Pathak. Avoid fatty foods before donating as they can interfere with blood testing. After donation, staying hydrated and consuming a light snack helps restore energy levels quickly.

Women, especially, often have concerns about low hemoglobin levels. If your levels are below 12.5 gm/dl, you won’t be allowed to donate—for your own safety. It’s best to get your iron levels checked regularly if you plan to be a repeat donor.

<strong>YOU MAY WANT TO READ: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-wellness/can-you-have-anemia-by-donating-blood-article-151110665" data-type="tilCustomLink">Can You Have Anemia By Donating Blood?</a></strong>

Blood donation is a safe, simple, and generous act that can make a life-or-death difference. On this World Blood Donor Day, let’s pledge to stay informed and encourage more people to donate responsibly. As Dr. Pathak says, “With the right awareness and care, we can all contribute to building a healthier, more compassionate society.”

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world blood donor day

can you donate blood on period

can you donate blood on medications

can you donate blood after getting a tattoo

On World Blood Donor Day, observed every year on June 14, the spotlight turns to the vital act of blood donation—an effort that saves millions of lives each year. Yet, many potential donors still hold back due to confusion or misinformation. To help clear the air, we spoke to Dr. Sangeeta Pathak, Director and Head of Transfusion Medicine at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, about the do’s and don’ts of blood donation. Here’s what we learned.ALSO READ: Who Can Donate Blood To Whom?Can Women Donate Blood During Their Period?This is one of the most common concerns, especially among first-time female donors. According to Dr. Pathak, as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, women are advised not to donate during their menstruation, particularly during the 4-5 days of active bleeding. However, they are completely eligible to donate at any other time of the month if they are in good health.What If You’re Recovering from Illness or Taking Medication?Health is key when it comes to blood donation. “A person should be completely healthy and free from fever or illness at the time of donation,” says Dr. Pathak. Moreover, certain medications can lead to deferral, and there is a comprehensive list maintained under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. So if you’re on a prescribed course, it’s best to consult a doctor or the blood bank before donating.Alcohol, Smoking and Blood Donation—What’s the Deal?While an occasional drinker may not be entirely disqualified, heavy alcohol consumption is a red flag. “Anyone who is under the influence or shows signs of intoxication should not be donating blood,” Dr. Pathak warns. Ideally, toxic substances like alcohol or nicotine should be avoided for several hours before donation, and if there is an emergency and the only available donor has consumed alcohol recently, it's safest to look for another eligible person.Basic Eligibility: Age, Weight, and HealthTo donate blood in India, you must be:18 to 65 years old (first-time donors should not be older than 60)Weigh at least 45 kg (for 350 ml of whole blood)Hemoglobin levels of at least 12.5 gm/dlFor apheresis (platelet or plasma donation), the minimum weight is 50 kg, and the age range is 18 to 60 years. Chronic illnesses and poor general health are automatic grounds for deferral.Tattoos and Piercings: Are You Temporarily Ineligible?Yes. If you’ve recently had a tattoo or body piercing, you’ll need to wait 12 months before you can donate blood. This is a precautionary step to ensure there’s no risk of transmitting infections.TO KNOW MORE, READ: How Long After a Tattoo or Piercing Can I Donate Blood?What to Eat (or Avoid) Before and After DonationA proper meal before donating is important, but fasting is not advised. “The donor should not be on an empty stomach, and their last meal should be at least four hours before donation,” explains Dr. Pathak. Avoid fatty foods before donating as they can interfere with blood testing. After donation, staying hydrated and consuming a light snack helps restore energy levels quickly.A Note on Low HemoglobinWomen, especially, often have concerns about low hemoglobin levels. If your levels are below 12.5 gm/dl, you won’t be allowed to donate—for your own safety. It’s best to get your iron levels checked regularly if you plan to be a repeat donor.YOU MAY WANT TO READ: Can You Have Anemia By Donating Blood?Blood donation is a safe, simple, and generous act that can make a life-or-death difference. On this World Blood Donor Day, let’s pledge to stay informed and encourage more people to donate responsibly. As Dr. Pathak says, “With the right awareness and care, we can all contribute to building a healthier, more compassionate society.”

world blood donor day 2025: thinking of donating blood? a doctor answers all your doubts

Tooth Troubles Sent Nearly 2 Million Americans To Year Between 2020 to 2022: Report

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Tooth disorders led to an average of nearly 1.94 million emergency department (ED) visits each year between 2020 and 2022, according to a recent data brief by the National Center for Health Statistics. The data, drawn from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, highlights a significant burden on emergency care systems across the United States.

<h4>Who’s Going to the ER for Tooth Problems?</h4>

The analysis, led by Susan M. Schappert and Dr. Loredana Santo, revealed that adults aged 25 to 34 accounted for the highest proportion of these emergency visits—29.2 percent. While tooth disorders represented 1.4 percent of all ED visits, that translated to about 59.4 visits per 10,000 people annually.

When broken down by race and ethnicity, White non-Hispanic individuals made up the largest share, followed by Black non-Hispanics and Hispanics. Medicaid was noted as the primary expected source of payment, suggesting that many patients with limited access to dental care rely on emergency services for dental issues.

Another notable trend: the prescription of opioids for dental pain relief has dropped significantly. From 2014 to 2016, 38.1 percent of patients were prescribed opioids as the sole form of pain relief. By 2020 to 2022, that figure had fallen to 16.5 percent, indicating a shift in pain management strategies amid growing awareness of the opioid crisis.

Tooth disorders include a range of conditions that affect the teeth, such as:

<ul><li><span rel="noindex">Tooth decay</span> – Damage to the tooth's surface, often leading to cavities</li><li>Abscess – A pus-filled infection, often painful and serious if left untreated</li><li>Impacted teeth – Commonly wisdom teeth that haven’t broken through the gums</li><li>Malocclusion – Misaligned teeth that may affect chewing or speech</li><li>Tooth injuries – Including chipped, cracked, or broken teeth</li></ul>

Tooth disorders can be caused by various factors, including:

<ul><li>Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing or flossing regularly</li><li>High sugar consumption, which can accelerate decay</li><li>Accidents or injuries</li><li>Genetic conditions or developmental issues</li></ul>

Different tooth problems come with different symptoms, but common warning signs include:

<ul><li>Tooth pain or sensitivity</li><li>Abnormal color or shape of the tooth</li><li>Swelling or pus around the gums</li><li>Worn-down teeth from grinding or misalignment</li></ul>

<h4>Diagnosing and Treating Tooth Disorders</h4>

Dentists typically diagnose tooth disorders through a physical examination, using dental instruments and sometimes X-rays. Depending on the issue, treatments may include:

<ul><li>Fillings for cavities</li><li>Root canals for deeper infections</li><li>Tooth extractions for severely damaged or impacted teeth</li><li>Orthodontic treatment for misalignment</li></ul>

Yes—most tooth disorders are preventable with good oral hygiene. Experts recommend:

<ul><li>Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste</li><li>Flossing or using an interdental cleaner daily</li><li>Limiting sugary foods and drinks</li><li>Avoiding tobacco products</li><li>Seeing a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings</li></ul>

Dental care often gets sidelined, especially for those with limited access to regular services. Yet, as the numbers show, ignoring tooth problems can lead to costly emergency visits and long-term health risks. Promoting awareness and access to preventive care is key to reducing this burden—not just on individuals, but on emergency care systems too.

dental health

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tooth decay

dental disorders

Tooth disorders led to an average of nearly 1.94 million emergency department (ED) visits each year between 2020 and 2022, according to a recent data brief by the National Center for Health Statistics. The data, drawn from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, highlights a significant burden on emergency care systems across the United States.Who’s Going to the ER for Tooth Problems?The analysis, led by Susan M. Schappert and Dr. Loredana Santo, revealed that adults aged 25 to 34 accounted for the highest proportion of these emergency visits—29.2 percent. While tooth disorders represented 1.4 percent of all ED visits, that translated to about 59.4 visits per 10,000 people annually.When broken down by race and ethnicity, White non-Hispanic individuals made up the largest share, followed by Black non-Hispanics and Hispanics. Medicaid was noted as the primary expected source of payment, suggesting that many patients with limited access to dental care rely on emergency services for dental issues.Another notable trend: the prescription of opioids for dental pain relief has dropped significantly. From 2014 to 2016, 38.1 percent of patients were prescribed opioids as the sole form of pain relief. By 2020 to 2022, that figure had fallen to 16.5 percent, indicating a shift in pain management strategies amid growing awareness of the opioid crisis.What Are Tooth Disorders?Tooth disorders include a range of conditions that affect the teeth, such as:Tooth decay – Damage to the tooth's surface, often leading to cavitiesAbscess – A pus-filled infection, often painful and serious if left untreatedImpacted teeth – Commonly wisdom teeth that haven’t broken through the gumsMalocclusion – Misaligned teeth that may affect chewing or speechTooth injuries – Including chipped, cracked, or broken teethWhat Causes These Problems?Tooth disorders can be caused by various factors, including:Poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing or flossing regularlyHigh sugar consumption, which can accelerate decayAccidents or injuriesGenetic conditions or developmental issuesSymptoms to Watch Out ForDifferent tooth problems come with different symptoms, but common warning signs include:Tooth pain or sensitivityAbnormal color or shape of the toothSwelling or pus around the gumsWorn-down teeth from grinding or misalignmentDiagnosing and Treating Tooth DisordersDentists typically diagnose tooth disorders through a physical examination, using dental instruments and sometimes X-rays. Depending on the issue, treatments may include:Fillings for cavitiesRoot canals for deeper infectionsTooth extractions for severely damaged or impacted teethOrthodontic treatment for misalignmentCan They Be Prevented?Yes—most tooth disorders are preventable with good oral hygiene. Experts recommend:Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpasteFlossing or using an interdental cleaner dailyLimiting sugary foods and drinksAvoiding tobacco productsSeeing a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaningsWhy This MattersDental care often gets sidelined, especially for those with limited access to regular services. Yet, as the numbers show, ignoring tooth problems can lead to costly emergency visits and long-term health risks. Promoting awareness and access to preventive care is key to reducing this burden—not just on individuals, but on emergency care systems too.

tooth troubles sent nearly 2 million americans to year between 2020 to 2022: report

Alcohol-Linked Liver Disease Deaths On Rise Among Women And Young Adults

Alcohol related deaths on the rise among women and young adults

Deaths due to alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) are climbing at an alarming rate across the United States, with certain groups being disproportionately affected. A new study published on June 11 in JAMA Network Open found that ALD-related deaths rose nearly 9% each year between 2018 and 2022—more than double the rate of increase seen from 2006 to 2018.

Experts believe this sharp uptick is partly linked to increased alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic. Other contributing factors include chronic conditions like obesity and hypertension, which can worsen liver health. “It puts numbers to what we’re seeing in the hospital, in the clinic,” said Dr. Brian Lee, a liver specialist at Keck Medicine of USC, in a report to STAT News.

<h4>Worsening Trends Among Women and Indigenous Populations</h4>

While men still experience more deaths from ALD—17 per 100,000 in 2022—women’s death rates have risen more sharply. In 2022, 8 out of every 100,000 women died from alcohol-related liver disease, a significant jump from 3 per 100,000 at the beginning of the study period. Women’s mortality rate grew at approximately 4.3% per year—almost twice the rate seen in men.

The study also revealed a devastating impact on Indigenous communities. American Indian and Alaska Native adults had the highest cirrhosis death rate in 2022, at 33 per 100,000 people. Additionally, alcohol-associated hepatitis deaths in these groups more than doubled between 2010 and 2022.

Dr. Nasim Maleki, a psychiatry professor at Harvard Medical School, noted that although the pandemic has eased, its long-term effects—particularly in marginalized communities—are still unfolding. “The pandemic itself came under control, but the disparities that came with it continued and lingered,” she said.

<h4>Young Adults at Higher Risk Than Before</h4>

A particularly troubling trend is the increase in alcohol-associated hepatitis deaths among people aged 25 to 44. This condition can develop quickly and is marked by symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, and liver pain—even in individuals who haven't been heavy drinkers for long.

Liver experts warn that the worst effects of pandemic-related drinking might still be ahead. “Alcohol-related cirrhosis takes time to develop. So we may not see the true extent of the consequences until five, probably 10, years from now, which is very concerning,” said Dr. Robert Wong of Stanford University.

One reason for the sharper rise among women lies in biology. Cisgender women metabolize alcohol differently than cisgender men, which means their organs may suffer more damage from lower levels of alcohol consumption over time. That’s why current federal guidelines recommend no more than one alcoholic drink per day for women, compared to two for men.

“You’d be surprised by how shocked people are when they hear that drinking more than two drinks per day is considered heavy drinking by federal definitions,” Dr. Lee added.

<h4>Public Health Response and the Way Forward</h4>

In 2021, over 12,000 deaths from “unspecified liver cirrhosis” were linked to excessive drinking, although that may not always be evident from death certificates. Marissa Esser, who previously led the alcohol program at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, highlighted this hidden toll before the program was disbanded earlier this year.

The American Medical Association is now calling for more public education on alcohol’s risks, including its link to breast cancer. It is also urging clearer labeling on alcoholic beverages to help consumers make informed choices.

Though some data suggests a slight drop in alcohol use since its peak in 2020, it remains uncertain whether this will reduce deaths in the coming years. For now, ALD continues to be the leading reason for liver transplants in the U.S., and alcohol-associated hepatitis is the fastest-growing cause.

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alcohol deaths rise in women

alcohol deaths rise in young adults

Deaths due to alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) are climbing at an alarming rate across the United States, with certain groups being disproportionately affected. A new study published on June 11 in JAMA Network Open found that ALD-related deaths rose nearly 9% each year between 2018 and 2022—more than double the rate of increase seen from 2006 to 2018.Experts believe this sharp uptick is partly linked to increased alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic. Other contributing factors include chronic conditions like obesity and hypertension, which can worsen liver health. “It puts numbers to what we’re seeing in the hospital, in the clinic,” said Dr. Brian Lee, a liver specialist at Keck Medicine of USC, in a report to STAT News.Worsening Trends Among Women and Indigenous PopulationsWhile men still experience more deaths from ALD—17 per 100,000 in 2022—women’s death rates have risen more sharply. In 2022, 8 out of every 100,000 women died from alcohol-related liver disease, a significant jump from 3 per 100,000 at the beginning of the study period. Women’s mortality rate grew at approximately 4.3% per year—almost twice the rate seen in men.The study also revealed a devastating impact on Indigenous communities. American Indian and Alaska Native adults had the highest cirrhosis death rate in 2022, at 33 per 100,000 people. Additionally, alcohol-associated hepatitis deaths in these groups more than doubled between 2010 and 2022.Dr. Nasim Maleki, a psychiatry professor at Harvard Medical School, noted that although the pandemic has eased, its long-term effects—particularly in marginalized communities—are still unfolding. “The pandemic itself came under control, but the disparities that came with it continued and lingered,” she said.Young Adults at Higher Risk Than BeforeA particularly troubling trend is the increase in alcohol-associated hepatitis deaths among people aged 25 to 44. This condition can develop quickly and is marked by symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, and liver pain—even in individuals who haven't been heavy drinkers for long.Liver experts warn that the worst effects of pandemic-related drinking might still be ahead. “Alcohol-related cirrhosis takes time to develop. So we may not see the true extent of the consequences until five, probably 10, years from now, which is very concerning,” said Dr. Robert Wong of Stanford University.Why Women Face Unique RisksOne reason for the sharper rise among women lies in biology. Cisgender women metabolize alcohol differently than cisgender men, which means their organs may suffer more damage from lower levels of alcohol consumption over time. That’s why current federal guidelines recommend no more than one alcoholic drink per day for women, compared to two for men.“You’d be surprised by how shocked people are when they hear that drinking more than two drinks per day is considered heavy drinking by federal definitions,” Dr. Lee added.Public Health Response and the Way ForwardIn 2021, over 12,000 deaths from “unspecified liver cirrhosis” were linked to excessive drinking, although that may not always be evident from death certificates. Marissa Esser, who previously led the alcohol program at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, highlighted this hidden toll before the program was disbanded earlier this year.The American Medical Association is now calling for more public education on alcohol’s risks, including its link to breast cancer. It is also urging clearer labeling on alcoholic beverages to help consumers make informed choices.Though some data suggests a slight drop in alcohol use since its peak in 2020, it remains uncertain whether this will reduce deaths in the coming years. For now, ALD continues to be the leading reason for liver transplants in the U.S., and alcohol-associated hepatitis is the fastest-growing cause.

alcohol-linked liver disease deaths on rise among women and young adults

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