A recent meta-analysis has concluded that no amount of alcohol improves health, directly challenging decades of research suggesting that moderate drinking offers health benefits.

The study indicates that even low-risk drinking is associated with an 11% higher risk of dying from cancer compared to those who drink occasionally.

Moderate drinking, defined as 20-40 grams daily for men and 10-20 grams for women, correlates with a higher risk of death from all causes, particularly cancer.

High-risk drinking, which includes consuming at least two pints of cider daily for men or one for women, is linked to a 33% higher risk of death from any cause compared to occasional drinkers.

The harmful effects of moderate or low-risk drinking are found to be more pronounced among individuals with poorer health or those living in deprived areas.

Interestingly, the study found that a preference for wine or drinking only with meals may lower the risk of death, potentially due to factors like slower alcohol absorption.

The findings suggest that alcohol may increase cancer risk 'from the first drop,' indicating that even light drinking can be harmful.

Lead author Dr. Rosario Ortolá emphasized that there is no evidence supporting a health benefit from low drinking regarding overall mortality.

The study argues that previous research was flawed, as it often compared drinkers to sick individuals who do not drink, potentially skewing results.

Skepticism about the findings has been voiced by various experts, highlighting that the debate over alcohol consumption and health remains unresolved.

Critics have accused lead researcher Tim Stockwell of cherry-picking evidence to support his conclusions, suggesting potential biases in his research.

The World Health Organization acknowledges that even low-level alcohol consumption can pose health risks, aligning with the study's findings.