Regular drinking of generous quantities of alcohol for a long time may make an individual more likely to experience acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a condition characterized by shortness of breath that typically arises when fluids accumulate in the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. This meta-analysis evaluated the probability of ARDS occurring among alcohol consumers. Researchers compiled data from 17 studies involving over 150,000 persons. 

Researchers discovered that long-term (chronic) drinkers of high amounts of alcohol had greater propensity to come down with ARDS. This study concluded that "chronic high alcohol consumption significantly increases the risk of ARDS."