A new study shows that people who regularly imbibe alcohol are less likely to die young than people who never drink.

The Mother Nature Network reports the study looked at individuals ages 55 and 65 over a 20-year period. Of the 1,824 study participants, only 41 percent of the moderate drinkers died prematurely compared with 69 percent of the nondrinkers.

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The study is surprising, based on the increased health risks for cirrhosis and cancer for those who drink heavily. A possible explanation is that alcohol is central in many social situations and can help build bigger social networks.

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Managing Partner at Atlantica Properties, Darion Dunn (center) talks with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens during a tour following the ribbon cutting of Waterworks Village as part of the third phase of the city’s Rapid Housing Initiative on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025.
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Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez