Alcohol and cardiovascular disease

Abstract

While there is little debate that heavy alcohol consumption is harmful to the cardiovascular and other systems, the impact of light-to-moderate alcohol consumption is less certain. Numerous prospective studies suggest an inverse association between light-to-moderate alcohol intake and reduced risk of premature mortality and cardiovascular disease. For men, one to two alcoholic drinks per day appear to be optimal, while for women no more than one drink per day is optimal. Current evidence suggests that any cardiovascular benefits of alcohol consumption are due to the alcohol itself rather than to a particular beverage type. While strong data now exist supporting the benefit of light-to-moderate alcohol consumption in preventing cardiovascular disease, recommendations by clinicians should be given on an individual basis after a thorough review of each patient’s history and risk profile.