Oxidative stress describes the state level of oxidative damage in a cell, tissue or organ, caused by reactive oxygen species. Alcohol induces oxidative stress in the liver resulting in an imbalance between oxidants and anti-oxidants.

Endoscopic variceal ligation is cost-effective relative to beta-blockers for the prevention of variceal bleeding in cirrhotic patients if quality of life-years are considered. If only life-years are considered, then endoscopic variceal ligation is not cost-effective.