Alcohol Related Deaths Per Year: Trend Charts (2025)

How Many People Die a Year From Alcohol?

Every year, tens of thousands of people die from alcohol-related causes, and the alcohol related deaths per year numbers have steadily increased over time. In 1980, there were 6,750 alcohol-related deaths, but by 2021, this number had grown to 17,300. The rise has been particularly noticeable since the 2000s, with sharp increases throughout the 2010s. These deaths can result from long-term health issues like liver disease or alcohol-related accidents and injuries. The data of how many people die a year from alcohol shows just how dangerous alcohol can be when consumed in harmful amounts, highlighting the need for greater awareness and prevention efforts.

How Do You Die from Alcoholism?

Alcoholism can lead to death in many ways, which helps explain why alcohol-related death rates are high and rising. Long-term drinking harms the liver, often causing liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. As the liver gets damaged, it loses its ability to filter toxins, which can lead to liver failure, sometimes requiring a transplant.

Alcoholism also weakens the heart, raising the risk of heart failure, high blood pressure, strokes, and heart attacks. Drinking affects the immune system too, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. Mental health struggles are also common, increasing the risk of suicide and accidents due to poor judgment. Impaired coordination from drinking makes driving or operating machinery unsafe, and drunk driving (DUI) is a top cause of accidental deaths each year. Tragically, the dangers extend to others through accidents, violence, and other effects of heavy drinking.

Alcohol Death Rate

The alcohol death rate shows how many lives are lost each year due to alcohol-related causes. From 1980 to 2021, this rate has generally increased, especially in recent years. In the 1980s and 1990s, the death rate stayed around 2.5 per 100,000 people, but by 2021, it had risen to about 3.9 per 100,000 people. This rise reflects how more people are experiencing serious health problems or accidents linked to alcohol. The data highlights the need for greater awareness about the risks of alcohol use and for steps to help reduce alcohol-related deaths.

Is Alcohol a Leading Cause of Death in the U.S.?

Yes, alcohol is one of the major causes of preventable deaths in the United States, along with tobacco, poor diet, physical inactivity, and illegal drugs. It leads to health problems, accidents, and violence. In recent years, the harm from alcohol has grown, showing the need for better ways to prevent its dangers.

Conclusion

The rising number of alcohol-related deaths per year is a sobering reminder of the risks associated with alcohol consumption. The health issues caused by alcoholism, combined with its role as a preventable cause of death, show the need for increased awareness, better resources for those struggling with addiction, and effective prevention strategies. Addressing alcoholism and reducing alcohol-related deaths requires a societal approach that includes education, mental health support, and a focus on promoting healthier choices.