By David Liu, PHD

Saturday Aug 11, 2012 (foodconsumer.org) -- Researchers from University of Exeter reported an association between binge drinking and the risk of developing dementia in older adults at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference 2012 in Vancouver, Canada on 18th July 2012. 

Dr. Iain Lang, who led the study, said: "We know binge drinking can be harmful: it can increase the risk of harm to the cardiovascular system, including the chance of developing heart disease; and it is related to an increased risk of both intentional and unintentional injuries."

Researchers analysed data from 5,075 participants aged 65 or older in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to assess the effects of binge drinking in older people on their brain function.

In the study, using four or more drinks on one occasion was considered binge drinking. Cognitive function and memory were assessed using the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status.

Binge drinking once a month or more was reported by 8.3% of men and 1.5% of women; binge drinking twice a month or more was reported by 4.3% of men and 0.5% of women.

The study found binge drinking at least once a month was linked to 62% more likely to experience the greatest 10% of decline in cognitive function, and 27% more likely to experience the greatest 10% of memory decline.

Those who binge drank twice a month or more often were 2.5 times more likely to be in the group experiencing the greatest 10 per cent of decline in cognitive function and also 2.5 times more likely to be in the group experiencing the greatest 10% of decline in memory.

The findings were similar in both men and women.

"In our group of community-dwelling older adults, binge drinking is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline," said Dr. Lang. "That's a real worry because there's a proven link between cognitive decline and risk of dementia."

Drinking alcohol is linked to brain shrinkage and promotes aging.  Drinking alcohol is also known to increase risk of a number of cancers.  Alcoholic beverages have been recognized as human carcinogens.