The condition of facial flushing caused by alcohol is more common in the Asian population. The redness in ‘blushing’ after drinking alcohol is due to an inherited enzyme deficiency. 540 million people have this condition, and it is linked to the risk of esophageal cancer. It is estimated that one third of East Asians, especially in Japan, China, and Korea, reacts to alcohol with the reddening of the face, nausea, and increased heart rate. The so-called ‘Asian flush’ is a response of the body because it lacks an enzyme needed in the metabolism of alcohol, as well as the destruction of toxic ingredients.
This enzyme is one of those involved in the conversion of acetaldehyde, a by-product of ethanol that can damage the DNA, into another substance that is less harmful to cells. Vasodilatation which reddens the face and other symptoms are but a reflection of the action that acetaldehyde is having on different parts of the body.
There are approximately 540 million individuals around the world who lack this enzyme, a deficit that has also been observed in some South American tribes.
Cancer of the esophagus is one of the leading causes of deaths worldwide. And while much of the Asian community knows the relationship between the flushing caused by alcohol and a deficiency of ALDH2 (aldehyde dehydrogenase 2), there has not been much effort to explore the risk of esophageal cancer in connection to this form of alcohol intolerance.
Via Science Daily
Posted by GSerrano on April 19, 2009 in Health & Medicine, Sci + Tech · 1 Comment
Yes, there are a total of 5 common health afflictions derived completely, from even just moderate alcohol consumption. They are & in no particular order:
-Grand Mal Seizures -Rapidly Progressive Blindness – Rapidly Progressive Deafness -Rapidly Corroded Livers -Heart Attacks
All with no forewarning signs nor any cures at this time ! February of this year, Canadian Medical information was released, with clarification on the term ‘moderate’ in relation to liquor. While many of us assumed it would allow 1-2 stiff drinks per day, in actual fact, due to the huge increase in these afflictions, it is now 1-2 per week maximum. If we don’t warn our youth, then whats going to happen, when many of us 50+er’s are no longer able to handle our many Professions, who’ll assume the responsibility/jobs, if our youth have already destroyed their health & futures ?
May God help us all !