After Samantha Ruth Prabhu, ‘The Liver Doc’ slams Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath for podcast episode on liquor industry: ‘Absolutely garbage…’

Dr Philip wrote, “A bunch of businessmen, some quite famous, sit around a table discussing the ‘business of alcohol’.

“So far so good. Alcohol is good business, a business that leeches out others’ life. It rakes in money for governments through taxation & monopoly; and fattens the bank accounts of those behind the industry (like this round table group) and makes barons out of those who sell well.” He added, “But when these businessmen, start glorifying their business of alcohol by equating it to ‘good healthcare intervention,’ it goes definitely into the realm of health misinformation, which is why, I have to keep discussing this absolutely garbage myth that ‘alcohol in moderation is good for you’ and the absolute nonsense disclaimer to support that myth, which they call ‘drink responsibly’.”

Furthermore, he stated, “I treat alcohol use disorder and related acute liver disease, chronic liver failure and acute-on-chronic liver failure (the most devastating of them all with highest death rate without a timely liver transplantation) on a daily basis.”

The doctor’s lengthy critique targets not only the podcast’s content but also challenges broader societal attitudes towards alcohol consumption, drawing on his medical expertise and experiences treating patients with alcohol-related illnesses.

Why drinking alcohol in moderation is unsafe for you

Dr Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan, consultant gastroenterologist at Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru, says that the notion that moderate alcohol consumption is beneficial to health has been a topic of significant debate. “Early studies suggested potential benefits, particularly for cardiovascular health. However, recent research offers a different perspective,” he reveals.

Dr Srinivasan continues, “A comprehensive study published in The Lancet found that any level of alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing health issues such as cancer, liver disease, and cardiovascular problems. This extensive study concluded that no level of alcohol consumption is entirely safe, challenging the earlier belief in the benefits of moderate drinking.”

Many studies promoting the idea that moderate drinking is beneficial often have methodological flaws or are funded by the alcohol industry, which can lead to biased results, warns Dr Srinivasan. “Moreover, the health impacts of alcohol can vary significantly among individuals, making it difficult to generalise any potential benefits. Thus, spreading this notion without acknowledging these nuances can lead to health misinformation, potentially encouraging harmful behaviours.”

Many studies promoting the idea that moderate drinking is beneficial often have methodological flaws, says Dr Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan, consultant gastroenterologist at Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru. (Source: Unsplash)

 Societal and economic consequences of alcohol use

Dr Philips highlights the societal and economic consequences of alcohol use, such as increased healthcare costs and societal harm. According to Dr Srinivasan, “Alcohol consumption leads to substantial healthcare costs due to the treatment of alcohol-related diseases, accidents, and injuries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol use is a leading risk factor for disease and disability globally.”

Additionally, he states that alcohol contributes to various social issues, including domestic violence, road accidents, and loss of productivity, imposing a significant economic burden on society.

While the alcohol industry generates considerable revenue and provides employment opportunities, these economic benefits are often outweighed by the public health and societal costs associated with alcohol consumption. Dr Srinivasan stresses, “Although alcohol taxes contribute to government revenue, studies, such as those by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), indicate that the costs associated with alcohol-related harm far exceed these revenues.” 

Role of media and influencers in shaping public perceptions of alcohol

Dr Srinivasan agrees with Dr Philips that the media and influencers often portray alcohol consumption as glamorous and socially acceptable, “which can lead to increased consumption, particularly among impressionable audiences.” When influential figures promote the idea that moderate drinking is beneficial, he says, they perpetuate myths and potentially harmful behaviours.

He stresses, “Media and influencers have a responsibility to share evidence-based information about the risks of alcohol consumption. They can play a crucial role in promoting healthier lifestyle choices and alternatives to alcohol consumption. Ethical considerations should guide their endorsements, striving to avoid promoting products that could harm their audience.”

Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips’ criticisms highlight the need for accurate, evidence-based discussions about alcohol consumption, he believes. “While the alcohol industry may provide economic benefits, the societal and health costs are significant. Effective regulation and responsible media representation are crucial for mitigating the harms associated with alcohol use.”