From the Editor’s desk...: March 2018

Abstract

Excessive alcohol consumption in young people is a major public health problem worldwide. Whether alcohol consumption early in life is associated with later development of severe liver disease is uncertain. In this issue of the Journal, Hagström et al. used data on alcohol consumption at conscription to military service from 43,296 men (18–20 years) in Sweden during the late 60s. During a mean follow-up of 38 years, 383 men developed severe liver disease. Alcohol consumption in people between 18 and 20 years old was associated with an increased risk of development of severe liver disease in a dose-response pattern. This important study highlights that alcohol consumption in young men is associated with an increased risk of severe liver disease. The risk was dose-dependent, with no sign of a threshold effect. Current guidelines for safe alcohol intake in men might have to be revised, and more effective campaigns aimed at preventing excessive alcohol consumption among young people should be launched.