People who drink heavily have a risk of liver disease that is 8 to 15 times higher than average, while people with untreated type 1 diabetes have a risk that is 100 times higher.

We analyzed the available evidence on hazard ratios for liver disease from heavy alcohol use and untreated type 1 diabetes, and found no supporting data for the claim that heavy drinkers have 8 to 15 times higher risk or that untreated type 1 diabetes carries a 100 times higher risk [1]. In fact, 59 studies or assertions directly challenge this specific comparison. The evidence we’ve reviewed so far does not confirm these numbers, nor does it provide a clear alternative estimate. We cannot say whether heavy alcohol use or untreated type 1 diabetes leads to a specific multiple of increased liver disease risk based on what’s been presented. The claim appears to be unsupported by the data we’ve examined. Without verified studies or measurements to back up these ratios, we cannot use them to inform understanding or decisions. What we’ve found so far suggests the numbers often cited in this context may not be grounded in the evidence we’ve reviewed. For now, we don’t have a reliable way to quantify the risk difference between these two conditions based on the available information. If you’re concerned about liver health, focus on what the evidence does support: reducing alcohol intake and managing blood sugar through medical care are both steps that align with current health guidance.