People who drink three or more alcoholic beverages daily may experience dangerous bleeding strokes nearly a decade earlier than moderate or light drinkers. The new research, published November 5, 2025, in Neurology, the official journal of the American Academy of Neurology, found a strong association between heavy alcohol use and early-onset intracerebral hemorrhage.
The study included 1,600 adults with an average age of 75, hospitalized for intracerebral hemorrhage. Researchers defined heavy drinking as consuming at least three alcoholic drinks per day, equivalent to 14 grams of alcohol per drink. About seven percent of participants met this criterion. They were found to experience more severe brain bleeds, with higher likelihood of chronic brain vessel injury.
Findings Show Younger Age and Larger Brain Bleeds
Heavy drinkers suffered strokes at an average age of 64, compared to 75 among non-heavy drinkers. Brain bleeds in this group were 70 percent larger, often spreading to deep brain areas and fluid-filled spaces, making recovery more difficult. The study’s lead author, Dr. M. Edip Gurol of Harvard University, stated that heavy alcohol use might not only worsen bleeding severity but also accelerate long-term vessel damage.
Brain Vessel Damage and Disease Links
MRI scans revealed that heavy drinkers were over three times more likely to show severe white matter damage, a sign of cerebral small vessel disease. This condition, characterized by injury to small blood vessels in the brain, increases risks of cognitive decline and recurring strokes. Participants with heavy alcohol use also showed higher blood pressure and lower platelet counts upon hospital admission.
Importance of Lifestyle Change in Stroke Prevention
Dr. Gurol emphasized that reducing alcohol consumption could lower both stroke risk and progression of cerebral small vessel disease. Encouraging healthier lifestyle habits, especially among at-risk populations, may significantly improve brain health and long-term outcomes. The findings underline how even self-reported drinking patterns can mirror measurable health damage.
Research Limitations and Future Directions
However, researchers noted that the study relied on self-reported alcohol use and reflected a single point in time rather than lifetime drinking patterns. More longitudinal studies are needed to confirm whether cutting down on alcohol reverses brain vessel damage over time.
Raising Awareness About Brain Health
The American Academy of Neurology continues to lead research and awareness efforts on brain diseases such as stroke, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s. It encourages individuals to seek verified information through Brain & Life, which provides updates, resources, and expert insight on maintaining brain health and preventing neurological disorders.
