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Russia’s rate of alcohol consumption remains among the highest in the world. Studies have found that most Russian men die before the age of 55 years due to alcohol poisoning or liver damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption. The average life expectancy for Russian men is 64 years only, which ranks among the 50 lowest countries in the entire world. Moreover, the weather of this country also plays a great role in provoking individuals to drink. In general, consuming alcohol is a lifestyle for them.

Binge alcohol drinking is a common practice in Russia. In this country, alcoholism is pervasive. The most famous Russian drinks are Vodka, Nastoika, Medovukha, Beer, Soviet Champagne, and Ararat Brandy. As per the reports generated by the WHO (World Health Organization) in 2011, 15.76 liters is the annual per capita alcohol consumption. This is the fourth-highest volume in Europe. However, a major drop in this amount (to even less than 10 liters) was reported in 2019. This became possible because of the national ban on sales of alcohol-containing beverages from 11 p.m. to 8 a.m. The dramatic decline in the total volume of alcohol consumption has further led to a decreased number of alcohol-related deaths in Russia. 

Alcohol and Cancer

Alcohol and cancer are very much related to each other. More specifically, alcohol remains to be one of the major causes of cancer. The more alcohol you consume, the higher your risk of cancer. Majorly, alcohol consumption is a risk factor for cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box, esophagus, colon, rectum, liver, and breast. This is because your body breaks down alcohol into a chemical (acetaldehyde) that damages the DNA and hinders the repairing process. Thus, when DNA gets damaged, the cells in a particular area can start to grow out of control and cause cancer. 

Even cancer patients who consume alcohol push themselves towards a decreased survival rate. This is quite relevant in countries like Russia where alcohol consumption is prevalent. Plus, alcoholism in this country has been socially acceptable. This factor contributes the most to the deaths related to alcohol, cancer, or both.

The last word

Due to alcohol consumption, the death rate in Russia had been increasing till strict alcohol laws were introduced and implemented. Since then, a notable decrease in the mortality rate has been visible. Moreover, this has also influenced the rate of deaths caused by the consequences of alcohol consumption including alcohol poisoning, cancer, and liver damage or failure.

The death rate in Ukraine has dramatically increased from 9 per 1,000 individuals in 1971 to 15.2 per 1,000 individuals in 2020. Its average growth rate is 1.07% annually. Respiratory and cardiovascular (heart-related) problems have contributed majorly to this. Moreover, diabetes and cancer in Ukraine have also significantly increased due to lifestyle changes and high blood pressure. All in all, smoke and alcohol become the two most highlighted causes of death in Ukraine and other countries of Europe.

Year	Death rate	Growth rate
2021	15.193	0.000%
2020	15.193	0.010%
2019	15.192	0.010%
2018	15.191	-0.070%
2017	15.201	-0.070%
2016	15.211	-0.070%
2015	15.222	-0.070%
2014	15.232	-0.070%

One of the most prevalent heart problems is ischemic heart disease (also known as coronary artery disease). It ranges from no symptoms at all to severe chest pain and heart attack. In medical words, ischemic heart disease refers to a serious heart condition in which a part of the heart fails to receive the required amount of blood. The word “ischemic” means reduced blood flow. It usually occurs due to the buildup of fatty material (plaque) in the arteries. Plaque comprises fatty substances, waste products, cholesterol, fibrin (clot-making substance), and calcium. This buildup makes your arteries narrow and limits the flow of blood to your heart muscle. When your heart doesn’t receive enough blood, it starts lacking nutrients and oxygen. 

Stroke is also one of the outcomes of ischemic heart disease. It is characterized by sudden numbness of the arms, face, and legs. This majorly affects one side of the body. Some individuals may also experience pain in the chest and heartburn. Such a condition is a product of busy schedules and a health-neglecting attitude.

The mortality rate related to cardiovascular diseases in Ukraine accounts for 440,9 per 100 000 in women and 772,1 per 100 000 in men. This comes out to be 68% of total deaths in the country. 

Ukraine and other countries including Russia are well known for alcohol (vodka) consumption and smoking. These factors have contributed a lot in increasing the risk of heart problems. Moreover, causes like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, being overweight, family history of cardiovascular diseases, and cardiac arrest have led to a greater incidence of ischemic heart disease.