January was Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and February is the Canada Cancer Society’s “dry” month to encourage people to go alcohol-free. Did you know that both the Alzheimer’s Society and the Canadian Cancer Society are participating charities in Federated Health?
And both have a reason for promoting the reduction of alcohol consumption as its long-term over-consumption can contribute to both vascular dementia and to cancer.
Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health was developed in 2022/23 and provides evidence-based advice on alcohol to support people in making informed decisions about their health. The guidance is based on the latest research on alcohol-related risks and replaces Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines (LRDGs) issued in 2011.
The guidance is based on the principle of autonomy in harm reduction and the fundamental idea behind it that people living in Canada have a right to know that all alcohol use comes with risk. New recommendations advise a consumption of no more than two alcoholic beverages per week.
Alcohol related vascular dementia is one of three types of brain damage caused by the overconsumption of alcohol over a long period. It can devolve into a more serious type of damage if alcohol continues to be over-consumed, including a form of encephalopathy.
Alcohol overconsumption can also contribute to the increase in certain types of cancer, including breast and colon.
Overconsumption of alcohol can also lead to an increased risk of stroke because it contributes to a number of conditions that are risk factors for stroke such as high blood pressure and liver damage that prevents the liver from making substances that help your blood to clot. This can increase your risk of having a stroke caused by bleeding in your brain.
Again, the Heart and Stroke Foundation and the Canadian Liver Foundation are participating charities in Federated Health . And like the Alzheimer’s Society and the Canadian Cancer Society, they benefit from the funds raised in Federated Health Charities’ campaign to further research and to educate Ontarians on the problems of overconsumption and the benefits of moderation as a lifestyle.
Today, there are many alcohol light or alcohol free beverages that give you the taste of an excellent party drink without concern. You can speak with staff at the LCBO about alcohol alternatives or read about it online.
Donate to Federated Health Charities today to support a healthier Ontario and a better life for people and families living with sickle cell disease.