Drinking alcohol can increase a person’s chances of reaching 90, a study has found.
Men who consume half a pint of beer a day are 81 percent more likely to reach the milestone age when compared to non-drinkers.
Women can increase their chances of reaching a tenth decade by a third if they drink a similar amount.
The information has been published by researchers from Maastricht University in Holland who tracked the drinking habits of 5,500 people over two decades.
The study also found that men who drink three shots of whiskey or two pints every day are two-thirds more likely to reach 90 than teetotallers.
Lead researcher Prof Dr. Piet van den Brandt :
“Our analyses show significantly positive associations between alcohol and longevity in men and women.”
Despite the study findings, concerns have previously been raised by Prof Dame Sally Davies, former Chief Medical Officer, that one pint a week increases the risk of cancer.
Boozers have been warned even drinking at low levels is linked to cancers of the lip, oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, and breast.
At higher levels, there is an increased risk of bowel and liver cancer. Drinking regularly over time can also lead to a wide range of other illnesses including strokes, heart disease, liver disease, and damage to the brain and nervous system.
However, non-drinkers are being urged not to start drinking in a bid to live longer.
Sir Ian Gilmore, from Alcohol Health Alliance UK, said:
“There is no evidence to suggest non-drinkers should start for the good of their health.”
NHS guidelines recommend no more than 14 units of alcohol weekly – around six pints of beer or six standard glasses of wine.
