Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) are the major contributors to the liver disease burden globally. The rise in these conditions is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and increased alcohol consumption. MASLD and ALD share risk factors, pathophysiology and histological features but differ in their thresholds for alcohol use, and the ALD definition does not require the presence of metabolic dysfunction. A recent multi-society consensus overhauled the nomenclature of liver steatosis and introduced the term MetALD to describe patients with metabolic dysfunction who drink more than those with MASLD and less than those with ALD. This new terminology aims to enhance the understanding and management of liver disease but poses challenges, such as the need to accurately measure alcohol consumption in research and clinical practice settings. Recent studies show that MetALD has significant implications for patient management, as it is associated with increased mortality risks and more severe liver outcomes compared to MASLD alone. MetALD patients face increased risks of liver disease progression, cancer and cardiovascular disease. The diagnosis of MetALD involves the adequate quantification of alcohol use through standardised questionnaires and/or biomarkers as well as proper assessment of liver disease stage and progression risk using non-invasive tools including serologic markers, imaging, elastography techniques and genetic testing. Effective management requires addressing both metabolic and alcohol-related factors to improve outcomes. This review intends to provide a comprehensive overview of MetALD, covering pathogenesis, potential diagnostic approaches, management strategies and emerging therapies.

The classification of steatotic liver disease (SLD) has evolved, incorporating all conditions characterized by hepatic lipid accumulation. SLD represents a continuum of disorders that are shaped by the dynamic factors of alcohol intake and cardiometabolic risk factors. This updated classification has profound implications for both the management and research of SLD, especially with the new distinct category of patients with both metabolic and alcohol-related liver disease. In this Perspective, we highlight the pivotal role of alcohol within the SLD framework. We introduce the 'SLD burden paradox': a concept illustrating the disparity in which metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease is more prevalent, yet individuals with SLD and excessive alcohol intake (such as in metabolic and alcohol-related liver disease and in alcohol-related liver disease) account for greater global liver-related morbidity and mortality. We explore strategies to mitigate the effect of SLD on morbidity and mortality, emphasizing the importance of early detection and reducing stigma associated with alcohol intake. Our discussion extends to methods for assessing and monitoring alcohol intake together with the critical role of managing cardiometabolic risk factors in patients across the SLD spectrum. Conclusively, we advocate for a coordinated care framework that adopts a person-centric approach when managing SLD, aiming to improve outcomes and patient care.

Liver cancer is a major global health burden, with alcohol use being a well-established risk factor. This study aims to analyze the global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) attributable to liver cancer due to alcohol use from 1990 to 2021.

Data on liver cancer due to alcohol use were collected from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study. The changing trend of liver cancer among alcohol users was described using the linear regression model. In addition, we employed a hierarchical cluster analysis to study the evolving patterns across diverse GBD regions and conducted a frontier analysis to explore the nexus between the burden and sociodemographic progress.

In 2021, alcohol-related liver cancer globally accounted for 99 544 incidence cases, 132 033 prevalence cases, 92 228 death cases, and 2 316 027 DALYs cases. Males and middle-aged adults emerged as high-risk populations, while regions with a higher sociodemographic index (SDI) were identified as high-risk areas. From 1990 to 2021, both the number of cases and age-standardized rates (ASRs) increased. Our frontier analysis revealed unattained health gains between 1990 and 2021, highlighting disparities in disease burden among countries with varying SDI levels. This analysis further demonstrated an inverse correlation between SDI and alcohol-related liver cancer ASRs, with the ASRs stabilizing once the SDI exceeded 0.40.

Alcohol use is a significant contributor to the global burden of liver cancer. Comprehensive policies and interventions targeting alcohol use are needed to reduce the burden of alcohol-related liver cancer.

In the early 80s, the so-called "French paradox" was proposed, that is, a correlation between wine consumption, a diet rich in fats, and low mortality from coronary disease. Conversely, it is well established that excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of cirrhosis and cancer, but few studies have investigated the effects of moderate alcohol consumption. However, all these conclusions were derived from epidemiological population studies that may be subject to distortions due to multiple factors. Here, the effect of moderate consumption of red wine on health throughout life was examined in a murine model. Different variables were evaluated in groups of female animals that were fed a standard or a fat diet throughout their adult life and given water, or wine or alcohol diluted in water in proportions similar to what is considered moderate consumption in humans. Our results showed few differences in most of the analyzed variables (body weight, liver profile and survival rate) between the different female mouse groups. The most remarkable findings were observed in the fat-diet groups that showed more frequent and severe liver lesions and a lower average ovarian weight. Moreover, moderate and prolonged ethanol consumption significantly affected telomere length only when the diet was high in fat, whereas wine consumption showed no difference compared to water, pointing to a possible predominant role of the compounds, particularly polyphenols present in wine. On the other hand, wine-drinking mice fed a fat diet had more oocytes than those in the ethanol-drinking group. Overall, our data suggest that long-term moderate red wine consumption does not substantially influence the health of female mice.

In this study, the aroma profiles of high- and low-alcohol Jiangxiangxing Baijiu were compared through sensory analysis, revealing significant differences in acidic, floral, fruity, smoky and oxidized oil notes. To further clarify the underlying causes of aroma differences, we examined the concentrations of 106 important compounds, revealing that the concentrations differences between the two were generally 1 to 2 times. Furthermore, the determination results of the olfactory thresholds (OTs) indicated that the OT40% vol of 87 aroma compounds was less than the OT50% vol, with 68 compounds exhibiting OT changes ranging from 2 to 17 times. Finally, in terms of odor activity values (OAVs), it was established that changes in OTs of aroma compounds might be the primary reason behind the differences in aroma profiles. Overall, focusing on the impact of ethanol concentration on the OTs of aroma compounds is a key point of flavor modulation in low-alcohol Jiangxiangxing Baijiu.

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women globally, with incidence rates continuing to rise. A comprehensive understanding of its risk factors and the underlying biological mechanisms that drive tumor initiation is essential for developing effective prevention strategies. This review examines key non-modifiable risk factors, such as genetic predisposition, demographic characteristics, family history, mammographic density, and reproductive milestones, as well as modifiable risk factors like exogenous hormone exposure, obesity, diet, and physical inactivity. Importantly, reproductive history plays a dual role, providing long-term protection while temporarily increasing breast cancer risk shortly after pregnancy. Current chemoprevention strategies primarily depend on selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), including tamoxifen and raloxifene, which have demonstrated efficacy in reducing the incidence of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer but remain underutilized due to adverse effects. Emerging approaches such as aromatase inhibitors, RANKL inhibitors, progesterone antagonists, PI3K inhibitors, and immunoprevention strategies show promise for expanding preventive options. Understanding the interactions between risk factors, hormonal influences, and tumorigenesis is critical for optimizing breast cancer prevention and advancing safer, more targeted chemopreventive interventions.

Alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for premature mortality and increased disease burden worldwide, especially among young and middle-aged individuals. This study aims to evaluate drinking patterns and alcohol consumption among adults in Hainan Province, while also identifying associated factors.

Analyses based on the 2022 "2 + 3" epidemiological survey in Hainan were conducted, and the drinking types, quantities, and frequencies among local residents were described. Chi-square tests and multiple linear regression were employed for the statistical analysis.

A total of 32,857 adults participated, yielding an overall drinking rate of 42.8%. The drinking rate was significantly higher among men (64.4%) than women (18.9%). The highest drinking rates were found in the 30-59 age group, especially among individuals aged 30-39. Ethnic minorities had a higher drinking rate (70.1%) than Han individuals. Lower educational attainment was associated with lower drinking rates, although the prevalence of active drinkers was higher. Men preferred strong liquor and beer, whereas women favored beer and rice wine. The average weekly alcohol consumption was 59.8 mL for men and 10.9 mL for women, with 43.6% of men exceeding 100 mL weekly, compared to 12.7% of women.

This study emphasizes the complexity and diversity of drinking behaviors among adults in Hainan Province. Sociodemographic factors, including gender, age, ethnicity, education, marital status, occupation, and region, are closely linked to drinking behaviors. The findings provide a scientific basis for developing targeted public health strategies, highlighting the need for effective interventions to mitigate alcohol-related health issues among high-risk populations.

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a prevalent malignant tumor in East Asia, particularly impacting China. The association between multiple constituents of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and the survival time of NPC patients remains unclear, which poses a challenge for targeted public health interventions.

An accelerated failure-time model with a 12-year cohort design was used to analyze the impact of long-term PM2.5 and its constituents on the survival time of 1492 NPC patients. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) functions and stratification analyses were conducted to identify the exposure-response curve and vulnerable subgroups, respectively.

PM2.5 and its constituents were significantly associated with reduced survival time in NPC patients. For per interquartile range (IQR) increase in concentrations, the time ratio changing percentage (TRCP) ranged from -28.8 % to -33.6 % for PM2.5, -34.7 % to -39.6 % for black carbon (BC), -13.6 % to -17.4 % for nitrate (NO3-), -21.9 % to -26.6 % for ammonium (NH4+), -29.5 % to -35.5 % for organic matter (OM), and -31.5 % to -36.2 % for sulfate (SO42-). The exposure-response relationship exhibited a nonlinear trend, with a steep slope at lower concentrations. Furthermore, females, patients with lower monocyte levels, and those with a drinking history faced a higher risk of reduced survival time.

The study reveals the urgent need for environmental regulations to mitigate PM2.5 and its constituents, particularly BC. The evidence of accelerated loss of survivorship is crucial for establishing air quality guidelines concerning PM constituents and formulating public health interventions and protective measures for high-risk NPC patients.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease globally. Based on the 2023 definition, MASLD is characterized by the presence of metabolic dysfunction and limited alcohol consumption (<140 grams/week for women, <210 grams/week for men). Given the significant burden of MASLD in Latin America, this guidance was developed by the Latin American Association for the Study of the Liver (ALEH) Working Group to address key aspects of its clinical assessment and therapeutic strategies. In Latin America, ultrasonography is recommended as the initial screening tool for hepatic steatosis due to its accessibility, while Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) is preferred for fibrosis risk stratification, with further evaluation using more specific techniques (i.e., vibration-controlled transient elastography or Enhanced Liver Fibrosis [ELF] test). A Mediterranean diet is advised for all MASLD patients, with a target of 7-10% weight loss for those with excess weight. Complete alcohol abstinence is recommended for patients with significant fibrosis, and smoking cessation is encouraged regardless of fibrosis stage. Pharmacological options should be tailored based on the presence of steatohepatitis, liver fibrosis, excess weight, and diabetes, including resmetirom, incretin-based therapies, pioglitazone, and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors. Bariatric surgery may be considered for MASLD patients with obesity unresponsive to lifestyle and medical interventions. Hepatocellular carcinoma screening is advised for all cirrhotic patients, with consideration given to those with advanced fibrosis based on individual risk. Finally, routine cardiovascular risk assessment and proper diabetes prevention and management remain crucial for all patients with MASLD.

High alcohol use remains a public health challenge worldwide, with deaths and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) attributable to it showing a decreasing trend globally. Despite this global progress, Iran continues to face challenges in reducing high alcohol use-related health issues. This study aimed to report the national and subnational burden of diseases and injuries attributable to high alcohol use in Iran over 1990-2021 by age, sex, socio-demographic index (SDI), and underlying cause. Data on death and DALY numbers, as well as age-standardized rates of conditions attributable to high alcohol use, were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study. High alcohol use was defined as drinking above the theoretical minimum risk exposure level, which is the amount that minimizes overall risk. In 2021, the age-standardized DALY and death rates attributable to high alcohol use were 105.7 and 2.1 per 100,000, respectively. The age-standardized DALY rates increased by 24.9% over 1990-2021. Males had higher rates than females. The burden was highest in the 95 + age group. Substance use disorders were the leading condition associated with just high alcohol use. Sistan and Baluchistan had the greatest burden in 2021. SDI was generally positively associated with the alcohol-attributable burden. The burden of alcohol-attributable conditions in Iran has increased over the past 32 years. Targeted prevention and harm reduction strategies are recommended to address this rising burden.

Alcohol is generally believed to be metabolized in the liver by alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), and to a much lesser extent cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) and other enzymes. Recent studies suggest that gut also play important roles in the promotion of alcohol metabolism. ADH, ALDH, and CYP2E1 have several polymorphisms that markedly impact alcohol metabolism. These alcohol-metabolizing enzymes not only affect alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), but may also modulate the pathogenesis of other liver diseases and cancer in the absence of alcohol consumption. In this review, we discuss alcohol metabolism and the roles of alcohol-metabolizing enzymes in the pathogenesis of ALD, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-associated liver disease, viral hepatitis, and liver cancer. We also discuss how alcohol-metabolizing enzymes may affect endogenous ethanol production, and how ethanol metabolism in the gut affects liver disease and cancer. Directions for future research on the roles of alcohol-metabolizing enzymes in liver disease and cancer are also elaborated.

To examine the associations between unhealthy alcohol use and risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) among women and men aged 18-65 years.

An observational study in an integrated healthcare system with systematic alcohol screening. We identified 432,265 primary care patients aged 18-65 years who, in 2014-2015, reported weekly alcohol intake levels. Weekly alcohol intake, categorized into below (≤14/week men; ≤7/week women) and above limits (≥15/week men; ≥ 8/week women) per U.S. guidelines, and heavy episodic drinking (HED, ≥5/≥4 drinks any day in past 3 months for men/women, respectively). Main outcome was CHD during 4-year follow-up, based on inpatient ICD diagnoses of myocardial infarction and CHD. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, body mass index, physical activity, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia.

The cohort comprised 44 % women, mean age (standard deviation) of 43.5 years (±13.1). Weekly alcohol intake above limits was associated with higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, and a 26 %, 19 % and 43 % higher risk on the overall, men- and women-specific risk of CHD after adjusting for these risk factors (hazard ratio [95 % confidence interval] = 1.26[1.13 -1.40], 1.19[1.04-1.35] and 1.43[1.20-1.71], respectively).

In a large, real-world, diverse population with a systematic alcohol screening program, having weekly alcohol intake above limits was associated with increased risk of CHD among young and middle-aged men and women. Increased CHD risk due to alcohol intake above limits warrants particular awareness and interventions.

This study sought to identify effective health warnings about alcohol consumption and breast cancer risk among young adult female participants.

We tested a pool of health warnings in a national pilot study. We used the most effective designs from the pilot in the main experiment where young (ages 21-29) U.S. adult female participants (N = 1038) reporting past 30-day alcohol consumption were randomly assigned into 1 of 4 conditions where they viewed a health warning about (1) mortality, (2) mastectomy, (3) hair loss, or (4) control (non-health warning message). Participants were then randomly assigned to view 1 of 2 message types within each condition: text-only or pictorial. Warnings were shown apart from products. Outcomes were message reactions (attention to and cognitive elaboration of warnings, fear, hope, and perceived message effectiveness), attitudes and beliefs (perceived severity and susceptibility to alcohol harms, and perceived response and self-efficacy to prevent alcohol harms), and behavioral intentions to stop or to reduce alcohol consumption in the next month.

Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) models testing between warning conditions showed estimated marginal means (EMM) for every health warning condition were significantly higher than the control for attention (control = 5.80 vs. mortality = 6.63, mastectomy = 6.81, hair loss = 6.83, all ps < 0.05), fear (control = 2.45 vs. mortality = 4.11, mastectomy = 4.16, hair loss = 4.02, ps < 0.05), perceived message effectiveness (control = 3.44 vs. mortality = 5.75, mastectomy = 5.82, hair loss = 6.09, ps < 0.05), and perceived severity of alcohol harms (control = 5.51 vs. mortality = 6.25, mastectomy = 6.09, hair loss = 6.35, ps < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the health warnings about cancer effects for perceived message effectiveness. EMMs for intentions to reduce alcohol consumption in the next month were significantly higher in the mortality (6.44) and hair loss (6.35) conditions versus control (5.61, ps < 0.05).

Exposure to health warnings about alcohol consumption and breast cancer risk (vs. control) resulted in greater attention, fear, perceived message effectiveness, perceived severity of alcohol harms, and intentions to reduce alcohol consumption.

Lung adenocarcinoma, a subtype of lung cancer, is produced by uncontrolled proliferation of somatic cells affected by some tumorigenic factors. The origin of this disease can be attributed to the concept of "cancer driver," which links the occurrence of tumor with specific changes in some key genes. These key genes can be identified at various molecular levels. Our innovative method uses a groundbreaking computing technology called GenePlexus to mine new genes related to lung adenocarcinoma. Initially, a vast network was synthesized from protein-protein interactions. Utilizing GenePlexus, we traversed paths interlinking aberrant genes across different layers and pinpointed emerging candidate genes situated on these trajectories. Finally, the candidate genes that were obtained underwent a series of filtering processes, including a permutation test, interaction test, and enrichment test. Compared with the shortest path method, GenePlexus has identified previously neglected genes involved in lung adenocarcinoma. For example, genes such as EGR2, EPHA3, FGFR4, HOXB1, and HEY1 play key roles at multiple molecular levels, including methylation, microRNA, mRNA and mutation, which affect tumorigenesis and lung cancer progression. These genes regulate various processes, from gene expression and cell proliferation to drug resistance to therapeutic drugs and the progress of lung adenocarcinoma.

Alcohol consumption is intricately linked to the incidence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). This study comprehensively investigates the role of alcohol-induced microbial alterations in ESCC progression. A retrospective analysis of 328 patients demonstrated that alcohol consumption markedly increases the risk of ESCC and boosts the expression of the proliferation marker Ki67. Patients with alcohol-related ESCC exhibited substantially higher blood microbiome diversity, characterized by the dominance of Gram-negative bacteria, and elevated serum lipopolysaccharides (LPS) levels. In a mouse model, alcohol consumption not only augmented tumor burden but also compromised gut barrier integrity, facilitating bacterial translocation. Significant elevations in Gram-negative bacteria, such as Bacteroidales in the blood and Escherichia coli in esophageal tissues, were observed. Mechanistically, alcohol and LPS synergistically activated pro-inflammatory pathways, including TNF, TLR, NF-κB, and MAPK, which fueled ESCC cell proliferation. Meanwhile, LPS triggered necroptosis in normal esophageal epithelial cells. These findings reveal that alcohol-induced microbial dysbiosis in peripheral circulation and LPS-mediated inflammatory responses form a novel pathogenic mechanism in ESCC. Targeting Gram-negative bacteria and LPS could provide a promising therapeutic strategy for managing alcohol-related ESCC. Further research is urgently warranted to explore the interaction between microbial changes and the tumor microenvironment.

In January 2025, the United States Surgeon General issued an advisory describing the scientific evidence for the causal link between alcohol consumption and increased cancer risk. The report is timely as the link between alcohol and cancer is well established. Few would dispute the generally adverse effects of alcohol consumption on cancer risk and overall health with excessive levels of intake. More controversy exists at light-to-moderate levels of intake, such as not exceeding 2 drinks per day for men or 1 drink per day for women. Cancer risk may be the biggest concern in the low-moderate range of drinking as about one-quarter of cancer cases attributable to alcohol consumption arise in those consuming two or fewer alcoholic drinks daily. In moderate alcohol consumers, four modifying factors merit consideration, tobacco use, drinking frequency, whether drinking is with meals or on an empty stomach, and beverage type. Conclusions based simply on the overall dose-response without considering these factors is inadequate. A more thorough synthesis of the current literature and new studies and analyses designed to address these questions is imperative for developing practical recommendations for low-to-moderate alcohol drinking.

Pancreatic cancer (PC) ranks sixth globally among cancer deaths, imposing a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Although diet is known to be a major risk factor, Although diet is a well-established risk factor for PC, the precise dietary components linked to the disease remain inconclusive, with studies showing varying results across different populations and regions. This study addresses this gap through a comprehensive analysis of PC incidence trends from 1990 to 2021, with a specific focus on associations with age, dietary patterns, and socio-demographic determinants.

The data utilized in this study were obtained from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) results database, updated on May 16, 2024. Unlike traditional single-variable correlation analyses, a Bayesian generalized linear model was applied to assess the association between food intake and disease incidence during the period 1990-2021. To account for variations related to year and region, these variables were incorporated as covariates in the model, allowing for a more nuanced and comprehensive analysis of the background factors. Finally, the "BAPC" package was employed to project age-standardized incidence rates of PC through the year 2051.

The global incidence of PC increased from 3.90 per 100,000 people (95% CI: 3.69, 4.08) in 1990 to 6.44 per 100,000 (95% CI: 5.86, 6.93) in 2021. The analysis revealed significant associations between PC incidence and the intake of nuts, omega-3 fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), trans fats, dietary sodium, and calcium. In typical countries, higher intake of nuts and PUFA was associated with a reduced incidence of PC, while trans fats were positively correlated with increased incidence. The age-standardized Bayesian Age-Period-Cohort (BAPC) prediction indicates that the incidence rates of PC will show a downward trend after 2021.

From 1990 to 2021, the global incidence of PC exhibited a rapid upward trend, suggesting an increasing global healthcare burden. The findings of this study suggest that dietary lipid intake is significantly associated with PC incidence at a global level. This finding underscores the importance of dietary fat composition, particularly in the context of pancreatic cancer prevention, suggesting that individuals should pay attention to the types and sources of fats in their diets to mitigate disease risk.

In recent decades, an increasing body of research has highlighted significant scientific evidence linking adherence to the Mediterranean diet with a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Simultaneously, concerns about the environmental impact of the food system have intensified, particularly considering projected population growth in the coming years. This work introduces a new graphical representation of the traditional Mediterranean dietary model, developed by a dedicated Working Group of the Italian Society of Human Nutrition (SINU). This new model emphasizes plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and extra-virgin olive oil, at its foundation, reflecting their historical and scientific significance in the Mediterranean diet. Animal products, particularly red and processed meats, are de-emphasized, with dairy, white meats, and eggs recommended for moderate, weekly consumption. The pyramid also advocates limiting added sugars, salt, and alcohol to address their links with chronic diseases. Sustainability principles are woven into the framework, prioritizing local, seasonal, and minimally processed foods while discouraging food waste. The pyramid aligns with global recommendations from FAO and WHO, offering a comprehensive guide to adopting a healthy, sustainable dietary lifestyle while preserving cultural traditions and addressing contemporary nutritional and environmental challenges.

Published studies rarely assess associations between trajectories of drinking and mortality.

We aimed to assess associations between long-term sex-specific drinking trajectories and all-cause and disease-specific mortality for 39 588 participants (23 527 women; 16 061 men) enrolled in the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study in 1990-94 aged 40-69 years. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for all-cause, cardiovascular disease- and cancer-specific mortality in relation to group-based alcohol intake trajectories.

There were 7664 deaths (1117 cardiovascular; 2251 cancer) in women over 595 456 person-years, and 7132 deaths (1283 cardiovascular; 2340 cancer) in men over 377 314 person-years. We identified three distinct group-based alcohol intake trajectories for women: 'lifetime abstention', 'stable light', and 'increasing moderate'; and six for men: 'lifetime abstention', 'stable light', 'stable moderate', 'increasing heavy', 'early decreasing heavy', and 'late decreasing heavy'. We observed 9%-12% lower all-cause mortality, driven by associations with cardiovascular disease-specific deaths, for 'stable light' (women: HR 0.91; 95% CI 0.87-0.96; men: HR 0.88; 95% CI 0.82-0.94) and 'stable moderate' (HR 0.88; 95% CI 0.81-0.96) drinking, compared with 'lifetime abstention'. In contrast, all-cause mortality was 18%-21% higher for 'early decreasing heavy' (HR 1.18; 95% CI 1.05-1.32) and 'late decreasing heavy' (HR 1.21; 95% CI 1.04-1.40) drinking, and cancer-specific mortality 19%-37% higher for 'increasing moderate' (HR 1.19; 95% CI 1.00-1.43), 'early decreasing heavy' (HR 1.34; 95% CI 1.10-1.64), and 'late decreasing heavy' (HR 1.37; 95% CI 1.06-1.77) drinking.

Our findings highlight the importance of avoiding higher levels of alcohol intake during the life course to reduce all-cause and cancer-specific mortality.

This study characterizes the steroidal saponin diosgenin by theoretical and experimental spectroscopic techniques. Theoretical simulations were performed using the DFT/B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) basis set to simulate spectroscopic, structural and other properties. Optimized geometries from simulations and experiments showed strong agreement, with R2 value of 0.99846 for bond lengths and 0.88092 for bond angles. Vibrational spectra revealed distinctive peaks for the methyl, methylene, and methine groups in diosgenin. Solvent-solute interactions on the Frontier Molecular Orbitals (FMO), Molecular Electrostatic Potential (MEP) surfaces, and electronic spectra were analyzed, revealing insights into diosgenin's behavior in different environments. The FMO energy gap shows that polar solvents like acetone, ethanol, and water have wider band gaps (6.22-6.23 eV) than non-polar solvents like benzene, chloroform, and toluene (6.17-6.20 eV), indicating stronger interactions with polar groups, enhanced stability, and reduced reactivity. NBO analysis shows substantial stabilization energy (14.71 kJ/mol) when electrons from oxygen's (O1) lone pair are donated to the anti-bonding orbital of O2C15 through the transition of LP (2) → σ*. The carbon (C15) situated between oxygen (O1) and (O2) exhibits increased electronegativity (-1.65605 e), confirming the electronegativity of the oxygen atoms. Hirshfeld surfaces shows that the crystal structure is mainly influenced by H…H (90.7 %) interaction. Topological analyses revealed molecular interactions and chemical bonding within diosgenin, highlighting its diverse chemical functionalities. Furthermore, molecular docking and ADME predictions underscores diosgenin's potential biological activity against human hexokinase (-8.09 kcal/mol) and phosphofructokinase (-8.35 kcal/mol), suggesting its efficacy as an antitumor drug.

Alcohol consumption has been associated with an increased risk of cancer-related mortality. It may also negatively impact oncological therapies, potentially leading to impaired effectiveness or an increased risk of treatment-related toxicities. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the current evidence regarding the potential effects of alcohol consumption during cancer treatments on both treatment effectiveness and toxicity, irrespective of cancer type.

A comprehensive literature search was performed across three electronic databases (Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane) covering studies from January 1990 to December 2023. Furthermore, a manual search based on the reference lists of the eligible studies was performed to identify additional potentially eligible studies. Studies were eligible if they involved cancer patients and provided data on alcohol consumption during specific oncological treatments, including its effect on treatment outcomes, or compared treatment effectiveness or toxicity between drinkers and non-drinkers. Studies were excluded if they did not meet these criteria, were duplicates, case reports, conference abstracts, or focused only on cancer-specific or overall survival. Only studies using multivariable analyses to examine the association between alcohol consumption and treatment effectiveness or toxicity were included in the pooled analyses. Pooled Hazard Ratios (HRs) or Odds Ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects models. Study quality was assessed by using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale whereas the GRADE approach was applied to rate the certainty of evidence for pooled analyses.

Out of 6734 studies identified through searching, 38 met the inclusion criteria for pooled analyses. Alcohol consumption during radiotherapy, with or without concomitant chemotherapy, was associated with worse disease-free survival (pooled HR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.09 - 3.89), although the numerically increased risk for locoregional recurrence did not reach statistically significance (pooled HR: 2.01; 95% CI: 0.76 - 5.36). The potential impact of alcohol consumption on chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity and acute / delayed nausea was not statistically significant. However, alcohol consumption was associated with a lower risk of overall chemotherapy-induced nausea (OR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.57, 0.84).

Our findings suggest that alcohol consumption may have a negative impact on radiotherapy, whereas its potential impact on the effectiveness of systemic oncological therapies (chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapy, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy) has not been adequately studied. Similarly, the current evidence on the potential association between alcohol consumption and treatment-related toxicities is weak, highlighting the need for well-designed prospective studies on this topic.

Polygonatum (Huangjing) genus has been used as both food and medicine in China for 2000 years, which was regarded as a "Top-grade" herb in the Shennong Bencao Jing. The most commonly used species is the rhizome of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua (PC) that is traditionally utilized to invigorate Qi, nourish Yin, moisten lung, and tonify spleen and kidney.

Excessive alcohol consumption causes severe upper-gastrointestinal diseases, notably gastric mucosal damage characterized by hemorrhagic gastritis, which lacks safe and effective intervention. This study aims to investigate the gastroprotective effects of nine-steaming and nine-drying processed Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua (PPC) on alcohol-induced gastric mucosal damage in mice.

PPC extract was chemically characterized by UPLC-QE-MS analysis. ICR mice were subjected to an ethanol-induced gastric lesion model and were orally administered PPC aqueous extract for 5 consecutive days. After treatment, gastric tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and the pro-inflammatory and oxidative stress factors were determined using ELISA and Multiplex assay, while the gene expressions of gastric tissues were detected by RNA-seq and Western blotting.

PPC reduced the alcohol concentration of liquor in vitro and protected against alcohol-induced gastric mucosal lesion in mice. Notably, PPC aqueous extract relieved alcohol-induced pro-inflammatory and oxidative stress factors, including interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-8, keratinocyte-derived chemokine (KC), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA). RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that ethanol exposure activated mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and IL-17 signaling pathways in gastric tissue, and these activated signaling pathways were inhibited by the PPC treatment. Consistently, Western blot data showed that PPC treatment suppressed the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK), TNF-α and IL-17A pathways in gastric tissue.

In conclusion, the aqueous extract of PPC exerted a gastroprotective effect against alcohol-induced gastric injury by alleviating inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially through the inhibition of the MAPKs, IL-17 and TNF-α pathways. These findings supported the future development of PPC as an effective intervention for alcohol-induced gastric damage.

Gliomas, particularly high-grade gliomas such as glioblastoma, represent a major challenge due to their poor prognosis. While dietary factors have been proposed as potential modulators of glioma risk, causal inference has been hindered by confounding and reverse causality in observational studies. This study employs Mendelian randomization to investigate the causal relationship between dietary factors and glioma risk.

A two-sample MR framework was applied, utilizing genome-wide association study data for 22 dietary exposures and glioma risks, including both GBM and non-GBM subtypes. Instrumental variables (genetic variants) were identified for each dietary factor to address confounding and pleiotropy. Causal inference was conducted using inverse-variance weighted regression, complemented by MR-Egger and MR-PRESSO analyses to assess and correct for potential pleiotropy.

A positive causal association was observed between the intake of cooked vegetables and the GBM risk (OR = 6.55, 95% CI: 1.86-23.12, p = 0.00350). While alcohol intake demonstrated a protective effect for non-GBM risk (OR = 0.770, 95% CI: 0.61-0.97, p = 0.029), beer was substantially linked to an increased risk of non-GBM gliomas (OR = 4.82, 95% CI: 1.84-12.59, p = 0.0014). Other dietary factors did not exhibit significant causal associations.

These findings suggest that certain dietary factors, including cooked vegetable intake, beer consumption, and alcohol intake, may exert a causal influence on glioma risk. This study provides new insights into the potential dietary determinants of glioma and underscores the need for further investigation into modifiable risk factors for glioma prevention.

The global epidemiology of HCC is shifting due to changes in both established and emerging risk factors. This transformation is marked by an emerging prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and type 2 diabetes, alongside traditional risks such as viral hepatitis (HBV and HCV), and exposure to chemical agents like aflatoxin, alcohol, tobacco, and air pollution. This review examines how environmental exposures and evolving liver pathology, exacerbated by lifestyle and metabolic conditions, are contributing to the rising worldwide incidence of HCC. Effective prevention strategies must not only address traditional risk factors through vaccination and therapeutic measures but also confront metabolic and socioeconomic disparities through comprehensive public health efforts. As the burden of liver cancer continues to grow, particularly in resource-limited settings, an expansive and inclusive approach is vital for mitigating its impact across diverse populations.

In light of the new nomenclature of steatotic liver disease (SLD), we aimed to enhance the existing knowledge on the epidemiology and clinical outcomes of metabolic and alcohol related/associated liver disease (MetALD).

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed in Medline/PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Cochrane databases to evaluate the prevalence and outcomes of MetALD within the SLD population and to compare the characteristics between MetALD patients and those with metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and alcohol-related liver disease (ALD). Nineteen studies from nine countries that evaluated 4,543,341 adult participants with SLD were included.

The pooled overall prevalence of MetALD among the SLD population was 10 % (95%CI:7-13 %) without significant difference between Asian and non-Asian populations. However, MetALD was more frequent in men than women (86 % vs 14 %, p < 0.01), while Asian MetALD patients, were more frequent men (92 % vs 66 %, p < 0.01) compared to non-Asians. Additionally, in terms of metabolic characteristics there were no significant differences between MetALD, MASLD and ALD patients. Regarding outcomes, patients with MetALD, compared to non-SLD, were at increased risk of all-cause [HR 1.44 (95%CI:1.24-1.66)], cardiovascular disease (CVD) [HR 1.17 (95%CI:1.12-1.21)] and cancer-related mortality [HR 2.07 (95%CI:1.32-3.25)]. Finally, patients with MetALD, had increased incidence of CVD and liver decompensating events, compared to non-SLD participants [HR 1.49 (95%CI:1.03-2.15); HR 10.55 (95%CI:3.46-32.16) respectively].

Based on the existing literature, patients with MetALD consist a significant part of the SLD population, with high all-cause, CVD and cancer-related mortality and increased risk for CVD and hepatic decompensation.

Alcohol is linked to various cancers. While many studies have focused on developed countries, the burden of alcohol-related cancers in developing countries remains underexplored.

We analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease Study (2000-2019) to assess mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) from alcohol-related cancers in low and low-to-middle sociodemographic index (SDI) countries.

In 2019, there were 494 730 mortality from alcohol-related cancer. Low and low-middle SDI countries contributed over 15% of global mortality of alcohol-related cancer. Among multiple types of cancer, other pharyngeal cancers in these countries accounted for over 30% of global mortality of alcohol-related cancer. Primary liver cancer exhibited the highest mortality ( n  = 16 090) in low and low-middle SDI countries. While deaths and DALYs rates from alcohol-related cancers decreased globally between 2000 and 2019, the related burden increased in low and low-middle SDI countries with a rise in all types of alcohol-related cancers, except for primary liver cancer. The most rapidly growing mortality rates in low SDI were from other pharyngeal cancers (+2.25%), whereas in low-middle SDI countries, colorectal cancer evidenced the highest increase (+2.76%).

The burden from alcohol-related cancer has risen in countries with low and low-to-middle SDI, especially other pharyngeal cancers and colorectal cancer. Policymakers should focus on improving alcohol-related policies as well as screening availability to tackle the associated burden of cancer in resource-constrained countries. However, the difficulty in isolating the impact of alcohol due to limited data on other confounders necessitates caution in interpreting these findings.

The advanced stage of cancer is a determining factor in poor prognosis. Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) are highly incident in Brazil, but similarly to many Low and Middle-Income Countries, data is limited regarding the proportion of tumours diagnosed at advanced clinical stages and the main factors associated with it. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the factors associated with advanced stage of HNSCC in Brazil.

Cross-sectional study based on secondary data collected from Hospital-based Cancer Registries (HBCR) between 2000 and 2017. Descriptive data analysis and Poisson regression with robust variance were performed to determine prevalence ratios (PRs).

Among 145,365 HNSCC cases, 78.2% (90,267/115,371) were diagnosed at stages III or IV. The highest percentage of advanced-stage tumours were hypopharyngeal [91.3% (10,186/11,159)], followed by oropharyngeal [86.6% (28,578/32,991)], oral cavity [75.1% (27,121/36,120)], and laryngeal cancer [69.5% (24,382/35,101)]. We observed annual increase trends of 0.29% and 0.38% for oral cavity and oropharyngeal late-stage tumours, respectively. Patients younger than 50 years old, with a low education level, presenting a primary tumour located in the hypopharynx or oropharynx, and alcohol and tobacco consumers were positively associated with advanced stage. Furthermore, we observed a dose-response effect of a statistically significant reduction in the prevalence of cases diagnosed in advanced stages as the patients' age group or education level increased.

Diagnosis of HNSCC at advanced clinical stages in Brazil was associated with age, primary tumour site, and socioeconomic factors that must be mitigated, allowing more universal and equitable access and diagnosis at earlier stages.

No funding.

Male breast cancer (MBC) is a rare malignancy that has been under-investigated, with limited global epidemiological research dedicated to it. A comprehensive estimate of the global, regional, and national burden of MBC is valuable for policy planning. This study aims to evaluate the burden of MBC across 204 countries and territories.

MBC data were collected from the 2021 Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors (GBD) Study estimates spanning from 1990 to 2021. The global incidence, prevalence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) attributed to MBC, as well as corresponding age-standardized rates, were calculated. Temporal trends, projections of incidence and mortality to 2050, lifetime risk, and risk factors of MBC were also estimated according to regions and countries.

In 2021, there were 38,827 (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 24,650-47,846) new cases, 320,459 (95% UI, 220,533-384,317) prevalent cases, 13,274 (95% UI, 9074-16,240) deaths, and 380,917 (95% UI, 252,922-476,417) DALYs attributed to MBC worldwide, with the highest disease burden observed in the Eastern Sub-Saharan Africa region. From 1990 to 2021, the age-standardized incidence and mortality rates of MBC significantly increased, but they are projected to decrease over the next 30 years. High-middle Socio-demographic Index (SDI) quintile had the highest lifetime risk of developing MBC, while the low SDI quintile had the highest lifetime risk of dying from MBC. Dietary risk and alcohol use were identified as important risk factors for MBC deaths and DALYs globally.

The global burden of MBC significantly increased from 1990 to 2021, with notable geographic disparities. Efforts aimed at MBC prevention and control strategies should take into account the inequities in its global distribution.

This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant numbers 82372996 and 82202913) and the Chongqing Natural Science Foundation (grant number CSTB2023NSCQ-MSX0480).

Objectives: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with an elevated risk of substance use, but few studies have simultaneously examined other aspects of victimization history that may contribute to substance use. The current study examined the direct and moderating effects of childhood polyvictimization (i.e., multiple experiences of violence victimization before age 18) on the association between IPV subtypes (physical, sexual, psychological, and injury) and alcohol/drug use. Methods: A sample of 256 college students ages 18-25 (72% female, 68% white) completed a survey assessing past-year IPV, childhood polyvictimization, and past three-month substance use. Results: There were no direct or joint associations between IPV, childhood polyvictimization, and alcohol use. There were direct associations between psychological IPV, childhood polyvictimization, and drug use. No other forms of IPV were significantly associated with drug use. Conclusions: Results highlight unique direct associations between violence victimization and drug use risk compared to alcohol use risk in this context.

The incidence of alcohol-associated cancers is higher within Asian populations having an increased prevalence of an inactivating mutation in aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2), a mitochondrial enzyme required for the clearance of acetaldehyde, a cytotoxic metabolite of ethanol. The role of alcohol consumption in promoting lung cancer is controversial, and little attention has been paid to the association between alcohol drinking and pulmonary ALDH2 expression.

We performed a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of multi-omics data available in public databases to elucidate the role of ALDH2 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Transcriptional and proteomic data indicate a substantial pulmonary expression of ALDH2, which is functional for the metabolism of alcohol diffused from the bronchial circulation. ALDH2 expression is higher in healthy lung tissue than in LUAD and inhibits cell cycle, apoptosis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathways. Moreover, low ALDH2 mRNA levels predict poor prognosis and low overall survival in LUAD patients. Interestingly, ALDH2 expression correlates with immune infiltration in LUAD.

A better understanding of the role of ALDH2 in lung tumor progression and immune infiltration might support its potential use as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target for improving immunotherapeutic response.

Ireland has regulated for all packaged alcohol products to include a health warning that states that 'there is a link between alcohol and fatal cancers'. This warning is being opposed in the World Trade Organization by 12 member states who are raising that the warning is an unnecessary barrier to trade. The World Health Organization is supporting Ireland. Countries should not oppose Ireland's warning which is defensible from legal and public health perspectives.

A growing body of evidence has established alcohol consumption as a causative factor in an increasing array of cancer types, thereby positioning it as a leading global risk factor for cancer. Surprisingly, there is a scarcity of studies examining the extent to which shifts in population drinking affect cancer mortality, despite the substantial public health implications. This paper aims to: (i) estimate the impact of changes in per capita alcohol consumption on both overall cancer mortality rates and specific types of alcohol-related cancer; and (ii) assess whether the association between cancer and population alcohol consumption is influenced by a country's drinking patterns.

We used time-series data for 19 high-income countries spanning the period 1960-2018. Cigarette sales and GDP per capita were included as control variables. The data were analysed using first-difference modelling. The World Health Organization drinking patterns score was used to evaluate a country's drinking pattern.

Our findings revealed that a 1 L per capita increase in alcohol consumption was associated with a 0.9% rise in total cancer mortality among women and a 1.1% increase among men. Notably, among men, the association was more pronounced for cancers with strong evidence of alcohol's effect and for prostate cancer. For women, the alcohol effect was statistically significant for breast cancer. Generally, the estimated alcohol effects were elevated in the country group with more harmful drinking patterns.

Our results indicate that lowering per capita alcohol consumption is likely to reduce cancer mortality.

Management of cirrhosis sequelae is critical in providing the most options for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Compensated liver disease is the ideal state for HCC patients who may require resection, locoregional therapies, or liver transplantation. Portal hypertension complications, suboptimal nutrition, and frailty are common barriers to various HCC treatments. For patients with advanced HCC, systemic therapies are altering the approach to multifocal, unresectable HCC, but similar barriers exist related to managing cirrhosis complications. Frequently, managing the underlying liver disease etiology is a key component to enabling HCC treatment.

Increased taxation on alcohol and tobacco is among the cost-effective measures used to deal with the burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) globally. Despite adopting such efforts, the impacts of taxation on alcohol and tobacco are yet to be fully understood.

The study's objective is to find empirical evidence regarding changes in the NCD mortality rate associated with changes in the tax rates of tobacco and alcohol.

The study adopted the System Generalized Method of Moments (SGMM) to explore the relationship between levels of taxes and NCD mortality rates. The SGMM allowed the inclusion of the dependent variable as an explanatory variable, assuming reverse causality was assumed.

There appears to be a negative relationship between increased taxes and the rates of NCDs. Specifically, we provide empirical evidence supporting the negative association between taxes on alcohol and tobacco cigarettes and the mortality rates from NCDs, which aligns with the propositions advocated by the World Health Organization (WHO). Additionally, the interaction between alcohol taxes on spirits and beer indicates a possibility of complementarity, consistent with taxation principles. Notably, we also observed that higher tobacco cigarette prices are negatively associated with NCD mortality rates.

The results indicate that increasing taxes on major health risk factors is necessary to reduce non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Implementing these tax increases will likely help achieve Sustainable Development Goal 3.4, which aims to reduce NCD mortality by one-third by the year 2030.

The intake of excessive ethanol will activate an alternative ethanol metabolic pathway in the liver, resulting in the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which further leads to alcoholic liver injury (ALI). Although several molecular antioxidants have been utilized in clinics for treating ALI, their efficacies are still less satisfactory. In this work, a nanocatalytic antioxidation therapeutic strategy is proposed for ALI treatment by constructing amorphous Co(OH)2 nanosheets with catalytic antioxidative property. The bis(μ-hydroxo)CoIICoII dinuclear active sites of Co(OH)2 nanosheets are capable of coordinating with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) with significantly reduced thermodynamic barrier to form a dihydroxyl adduct bis(μ-hydroxo)CoIII(OH)CoIII(OH) favorable for catalytic H2O2 disproportionation, while amorphous and ultrathin structure further facilitates the reaction, resulting in a high catalytic efficiency (Km=59.31 mM). Thanks to the inherent hepatic passive targeting ability of nanomaterials, the antioxidative nanosheets can accumulate in liver region efficiently after intravenous administration (35.5 % ID/g accumulation efficiency), enabling efficient catalytic antioxidation in the liver to mitigate hepatic oxidative stress, protect hepatocytes from apoptosis/ferroptosis. This study provides a new methodology of nanocatalytic antioxidation for treating ALI and other hepatic diseases related to oxidative stress.

Women at midlife have increased rates of harmful drinking in many high-income countries. This cohort grew up within permissive alcohol environments that encouraged women's consumption, linking it to success, femininity, and empowerment. This research drew on notions of 'structures of feeling' and 'affective atmospheres' to explore how women at midlife describe and make sense of alcohol and drinking within their lives.

Eight friendship discussion groups and 17 individual interviews were conducted with 50 women (aged 35-59 years) in Aotearoa/New Zealand about alcohol and drinking. Transcripts were analysed using an affective-discursive approach.

Shaped by idealised femininities and alcohol's chemical affordances, particular affective atmospheres and feelings arose in women before, during, and after drinking, providing insights into women's experiences and sense-making around alcohol. Three areas of life were highly affectively charged in discussions, namely drinking that: 1) enabled bonding with partner, 2) facilitated time out from busy lives, and 3) was part of coping with life's difficulties.

Women at midlife experienced pressures to be economically and socially successful, to maintain slim bodies, and to have 'appropriate' feelings such as selflessness and gratitude. For women in this study, drinking alcohol was a way to achieve, and to cope with, expectations around idealised femininities and socially endorsed ways of living, being, and feeling. Repeated and routine affective experiences reinforced the role of alcohol in women's lives. Findings suggest the need for gender-transformative policies that address the structural environments of women's lives.

Prolonged alcohol consumption disrupts the gut microbiota and the immune system, contributing to the pathogenesis of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). Probiotic-postbiotic intervention strategies can effectively relieve ALD by maintaining gut homeostasis. Herein, the efficacy of heat-killed Lactobacillus johnsonii (HKLJ) in mitigating alcoholic liver damage is demonstrated in mouse models of ALD. The gut-liver axis is identified as a pivotal pathway for the protective effects of L. johnsonii against ALD. Specifically, HKLJ is found to upregulate the expression of intestinal lysozymes, thereby enhancing the production of immunoregulatory substances from gut bacteria, which subsequently activated the Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2)-interleukin (IL-23)-IL-22 innate immune axis. The elevated IL-22 upregulated the antimicrobial peptide synthesis to maintain intestinal homeostasis and moreover activated the Signal transducer and activator of Transcription3 (STAT3) pathway in the liver to facilitate the repair of hepatic injuries. The heat-killed L. johnsonii provoked immunity helps correct the gut microbiota dysbiosis, specifically by reversing the reduction of butyrate-producing bacteria (such as Faecalibaculum rodentium) and the expansion of opportunistic pathogens (such as Helicobacter sp. and Pichia kudriavzevii) induced by ethanol. The findings provide novel insights into the gut microbiota-liver axis that may be leveraged to enhance the treatment of ALD.

This study aims to investigate the alterations in serum bile acid profiles among individuals with fatty liver (including non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and alcoholic fatty liver (AFL) and evaluate their clinical significance when combined with liver enzyme levels.

A cohort of 110 individuals with fatty liver (including non-alcoholic fatty liver 58 individuals and alcoholic fatty liver 52 individuals) was selected from the Department of Gastroenterology at Wenzhou People's Hospital between January 2021 and December 2022, while a control group of 66 healthy individuals was recruited from the hospital's health examination center during the same period. Clinical data and blood samples were collected from all participants. Serum bile acid profiles were quantified using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Statistical analysis was conducted in conjunction with liver enzyme indicators.

In the NAFL group, GCA, TCA, and TCDCA levels were significantly elevated compared to the control group, with GCA (AUC 0.754, sensitivity 0.707, specificity 0.712), TCA (AUC 0.770, sensitivity 0.724, specificity 0.712), and TCDCA (AUC 0.782, sensitivity 0.810, specificity 0.652) showing strong diagnostic value. In the AFL group, TCDCA, TCA, GCA, TUDCA, and GUDCA were significantly elevated, with AUC values ranging from 0.848 to 0.912. Among these, TUDCA had the highest sensitivity (0.885) and specificity (0.773) for AFL diagnosis. TUDCA (sensitivity 0.615, specificity 0.897) was the key bile acid distinguishing AFL from NAFL, with an optimal cut-off of 36.33 nmol/L. These bile acids show significant diagnostic potential for differentiating NAFL and AFL.

The bile acid profiles in both NAFL and AFL patients show changes, which hold potential clinical significance and may serve as serum biomarkers to differentiate NAFL from AFL.

Hypertension and cancer are both increasing with age. Recently, the new concept of "Onco-Hypertension" has been proposed to address the mutual risks posed by hypertension and cancer and to provide comprehensive care for patients with these two conditions in an aging society.

In this review, we provide an overview of the current status and future perspective of the "Onco-Hypertension," including our research findings.

Hypertension and cancer share common risk factors and may be interrelated in pathogenesis: Hypertension is involved in the development of certain cancers, and cancer survivors have a higher incidence of hypertension. With recent advances in cancer therapy, the number of cancer survivors has increased. Cancer survivors not only have a higher risk of incident hypertension but also an increased risk of future cardiovascular events, highlighting the growing importance of comprehensive care.

There exists a diverse array of epidemiological and pathophysiological relationships between hypertension and cancer. It is imperative to move the emerging scientific field of "Onco-Hypertension" forward through relentless research efforts.

Background: Behavioral factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, poor diet, and physical inactivity, but also sleep deprivation and negative social connections, play a critical role in the development and progression of major chronic diseases. These include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory conditions, and cancers. Methods: The objective of this review is to explore the influence of these modifiable risk factors on the global burden of chronic diseases and assess the potential impact of public health interventions and policy changes. Results: The evidence highlights a significant association between behavioral risk factors and increased morbidity and mortality from chronic diseases. Public health interventions and policy changes targeting these modifiable behaviors have shown substantial potential in reducing the prevalence and impact of chronic conditions. Strategies such as smoking cessation programs, dietary improvements, physical activity promotion, and stress reduction are critical in mitigating these risks. Conclusions: Addressing modifiable behavioral factors is essential for the prevention and control of chronic diseases. Bridging the gap between current knowledge and effective implementation of interventions is crucial for improving population health outcomes. Public health strategies focused on modifying key behavioral risks can significantly reduce the burden of chronic diseases, thereby improving overall health and reducing healthcare costs.