Alcohol use and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are both highly prevalent and often co-exist, contributing independently and synergistically to chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). MetS, driven by factors like obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension, increases the risk of liver-related outcomes, regardless of alcohol consumption. Both alcohol and MetS disrupt liver function through mechanisms such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and gut microbiome changes.

Global trends indicate significant variations in alcohol consumption and MetS prevalence, with heavy episodic drinking and unhealthy lifestyles driving these health risks. Research highlights that while mild-to-moderate alcohol use is linked to lower MetS prevalence and some cardiovascular benefits, any alcohol use significantly increases the risk of liver disease, especially in individuals with MetS. The combination of alcohol and MetS leads to greater liver disease severity and worse clinical outcomes. Future research should focus on how to mitigate these risks and implement lifestyle interventions to improve liver health.

Reference: Åberg F, Byrne CD, Pirola CJ, Männistö V, Sookoian S. Alcohol consumption and metabolic syndrome: Clinical and epidemiological impact on liver disease. J Hepatol. 2023 Jan;78(1):191-206. doi: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.08.030. Epub 2022 Sep 5. PMID: 36063967.