Epidemiology of Alcohol-Associated Hepatitis: A Systematic Review of Population-Based Studies.
Jakub Gazda, Tomas Koky, Aleksandra Robinska et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review synthesized population-based estimates of alcohol-associated hepatitis incidence and prevalence published from 2000 to 2025. Eleven studies from 7 countries were included. Annual incidence estimates varied widely, from 1.02 per 100,000 inhabitants in Iceland to 98.5 per 100,000 inhabitants in the United States; the median was 6.8 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (interquartile range, 4.2-19). Of 9 studies with at least 2 estimates over time, 7 reported increasing incidence and 2 reported decreases. No included study reported prevalence data.
Key findings
- Annual incidence ranged from 1.02 per 100,000 inhabitants in Iceland to 98.5 per 100,000 inhabitants in the United States; median incidence was 6.8 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (interquartile range, 4.2-19).
- Among 9 studies with at least 2 estimates over time, 7 reported increasing incidence and 2 reported decreasing incidence.
- In a prepandemic sensitivity analysis, incidence increased in 5 of 7 studies; 2 studies reported a pandemic-period surge.
- No included study reported prevalence data.
Why it matters
The review suggests that alcohol-associated hepatitis incidence has generally risen, but the wide variation in estimates and absence of prevalence data leave the population burden uncertain. Differences in case definitions may contribute to this heterogeneity, alongside possible genuine variation between countries. More comparable epidemiologic estimates are needed to clarify trends and inform understanding of the condition’s public health impact.
What to keep in mind
The review found only 11 population-based studies, with heterogeneous estimates and no prevalence data; differences in case definitions limit comparability.