The study, carried out by scientists from University College London, the Royal Free Hospital, the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, found that heavy alcohol consumption significantly increases the risk of developing cirrhosis of the liver.

In an analysis of medical data from 312,599 adults who regularly drink alcohol, scientists identified four groups depending on their level of consumption.

Moderate alcohol consumption was associated with a slight increase in risk, while heavy and heavy drinkers had a 2.4- to 3.9-fold increased risk of developing cirrhosis. The risk was especially high for those who drank alcohol rarely, but in large doses, reports Vokrug Sveta.

Interestingly, the scientists looked at patterns of alcohol consumption: regular but moderate drinking reduced the risk compared to rare but heavy drinking. Genetic predisposition to liver disease and diabetes mellitus also exacerbated the negative consequences.

The study’s findings highlight that drinking patterns play a key role in the development of cirrhosis and recommend that drinking be spread evenly throughout the week.