Immune System

• Alcohol can depress the body's immune system in many ways. It can contribute to a higher risk of infectious diseases and other undesirable medical conditions. Additionally, the typical lifestyle of a person who consumes excessive amounts of alcohol may not lend itself to healthy habits such as proper nutrition, sleep, and exercise. Poor lifestyle choices, including excessive alcohol consumption, can directly lead to a weakened immune system.
  
  

Lymphocytes

• B-cells and T-cells are essential for fighting foreign microorganisms that cause infections, bacteria and viruses. In alcoholics, the lymphocytes' activity is suppressed, leading to a higher risk of infection and disease.
  
  

Cancer

• Alcoholics tend to have an increased risk of cancer, specifically cancer of the stomach, intestines, mouth, esophagus and breast. Alcohol in excessive amounts can suppress the functioning of natural killer (NK) cells, (a type of white blood cell), which attack cancer cells.
  
  

Gastrointestinal

• Alcohol encourages the increased production of stomach acid. This can cause both heartburn and ulcers. Alcohol also can lead to cirrhosis of the liver, destruction of the liver's cells and fatty accumulations around it.
  
  

Other Risks

• Alcohol can also lead to an increased risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease and strokes. Additionally, it interrupts the body's sleep patterns, which further weakens the immune system.