Liver disease includes a range of conditions that affect the structure and function of the liver and may be influenced by metabolic, viral, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This Health Review examines the relationship between alcohol consumption and key liver disease outcomes, with a focus on liver disease, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis.
Last reviewed: September 2026
IARD Health Reviews offer a referenced overview of recent peer-reviewed, published research on the relationship between alcohol consumption and health outcomes. They are not intended to be exhaustive representations of all scientific research on a given subject and, as research is constantly evolving, they might not include the most recent findings.
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These materials do not necessarily reflect the views of IARD or its member companies. The reviews report the findings of the referenced studies and are not intended to advise individuals about their drinking. People with specific questions about their drinking are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional. Together, they can determine what is best for that individual based on individual risk factors, including family history, genetics, and lifestyle. For some people, the better choice may be to not drink at all.
IARD Health Reviews should be read in their entirety and not misrepresented or taken out of context.
How to cite:
Fernandez-Borunda, A., Ladwa, C.M., Carrillo, V., Fadahunsi S., A., Hinova, D., & Tujague, J. (2026). Drinking and Liver Diseases. Washington, D.C.: International Alliance for Responsible Drinking. Retrieved from https://www.iard.org/getattachment/ee0aad98-a4a2-40cb-b7d8-4134495abd66/iard-health-review_drinking-and-liver-review.pdf
© 2026 International Alliance for Responsible Drinking
IARD’s members and the members of its Partnership Council are a diverse group of organizations with a variety of viewpoints. They might not necessarily agree on all or any subjects. Any statements, findings, interpretations, and conclusions expressed on this website do not reflect the policies or views of all IARD members or the organizations they represent, unless explicitly stated. However, all members agree on and support IARD’s mission of reducing the harmful use of alcohol.
The resources on this website are not intended as health advice to individuals about their drinking. People with specific questions about their drinking are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional. Together, they can determine what is best for that individual, based on individual risk factors, including family history, genetics, and lifestyle. For some people, the better choice may be to not drink at all.
