The South Asian Trap: Why Alcohol Hits Nepal Harder
A 2026 study at Nepalgunj Medical College reveals a silent epidemic of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) in Nepal, with a 14% mortality rate among 384 hospitalized patients. The research found that South Asians are genetically more susceptible to liver damage, developing ALD with less alcohol consumption than Western populations. While men in their 40s comprised 80% of cases, women faced higher death rates (17.7% vs. 13.1%). With over 77% of patients presenting with jaundice and hepatic encephalopathy causing 81% of deaths, researchers urge immediate public health interventions, including routine screening and early detection programs, to address this preventable crisis.
6/14/2026Read Story