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Alcohol consumption is associated with both beneficial and harmful effects. Recently, the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) has increased around the world. The increasing rate of mortality associated with MetS is a public health concern. On the same side, the increased rate of alcohol consumption is also being experienced as a public health concern. It is important to see the relationship between alcohol consumption and MetS in order to understand its beneficial effect on the body. This review includes 42 research studies comprised of 32 cross-sectional, 8 prospective, and 2 retrospective cohort research studies. The findings of the review suggested a dose-response relationship. Light and moderate drinking was found to be associated with a lower prevalence of MetS. Heavy and binge drinking was found associated with a higher prevalence of MetS. A responsible drinking pattern is suggested in order to receive the bene- fit of alcohol consumption. The review also suggests further research with advanced methods including randomized control trials in understanding the relationship of various doses and types of alcohol with MetS and its components.

Alcohol drinking is a global public health concern. Alcohol advertisements and promotions influence youth to initiate underage alcohol consumption. Exposure to displays of beer, wine, and liquor in various settings has been pivotal in creating favorable social and perceived norms for societies, which has tremendously influenced youth drinking behavior. To address behavior stimulating complex settings in societies, highly coordinated and scientifically proven public health approaches need to be utilized in addressing challenges that lie within multiple areas, including marketing strategies of the industry, a pairing effect of social media, widespread favorable community perception, and ineffective policies. This commentary provides some strategies including the application of behavior change theory and the Multi-Theory Model (MTM) for building media literacy skills, in reducing the effect of advertisements on alcohol drinking initiation among youth.