Young Australians face rising alcohol-related liver disease rates in Victoria

Hospital admissions rise sharply

Researchers at the Burnet Institute tracked hospitalisations for alcohol-associated hepatitis from January 2017 to June 2024. They found that roughly half of patients developed cirrhosis within six years of diagnosis. During the pandemic period between March 2020 and October 2021, admissions increased significantly for both men and women. Although rates dropped slightly afterward, levels remain higher than pre-pandemic figures observed before February 2020.

Women now represent one third

The report indicates that women currently account for one in three cases of alcohol-associated hepatitis across the state. About forty per cent of all admissions involved people under age 45 during the study period. Thirteen per cent of these patients require intensive care while four per cent face mortality from the condition. Lead author Jessica Howell noted that young people have emerged as a distinct at-risk population group.

Experts link lockdowns to drinking

Liver scientist Jacob George from the University of Sydney suggested severe COVID lockdowns in Victoria drove higher alcohol consumption. He believes similar effects likely occurred across other Australian states and territories despite varying local data. Experts warn it is never too late for individuals to reduce their alcohol intake to prevent damage.