Effect of binge drinking on the liver: an alarming public health issue?

This review compiles experimental, clinical and epidemiological data on the binge drinking phenomenon. Binge drinking is a major public heath issue that can no longer be considered simply a momentary risk factor of behavioural concerns, but must now be viewed in light of long-term consequences, such as alcohol-induced liver disease. Binge drinking has a deleterious effect on the liver exacerbated by repeated episodes. The drastic increase in liver cirrhosis and mortality rates in the UK is particularly alarming. The binge phenomenon is now spreading throughout young populations in almost all Western countries. Studies specifically focusing on the risk threshold for development of alcohol cirrhosis in binge drinkers are warranted.