Moderate alcohol consumption linked to higher heart disease risk in women

A new study presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session has shed light on the dangers of alcohol consumption for women’s heart health. The research, conducted by Kaiser Permanente Northern California, found that even moderate alcohol intake can significantly increase the risk of heart disease in young to middle-aged women.

The study, which involved 432,265 participants aged 18 to 65 without a history of heart disease or stroke, revealed that women who consumed more than one alcoholic beverage per day were more likely to develop coronary heart disease compared to those who drank less. The participants were categorized based on their alcohol consumption levels, with binge drinking defined as more than 4 drinks for men or more than 3 drinks for women in a single day in the past 3 months.

Surprisingly, the study found that women who reported drinking 8 or more alcoholic beverages per week were 33% to 51% more likely to develop heart disease, while women who were binge drinkers were 68% more likely to develop heart disease. Men who reported binge drinking were also at a 33% increased risk of heart disease.

Lead author Jamal S. Rana, MD, PhD, emphasized that while moderate alcohol consumption has been associated with potential cardiovascular benefits in the past, the growing evidence challenges this notion. The study also highlighted the fact that women process alcohol differently than men, which may contribute to their increased risk of heart disease.

In light of these findings, it is crucial for individuals, especially women, to be mindful of their alcohol consumption and consider the impact it may have on their heart health. Maintaining moderation and considering individual health factors are essential steps in safeguarding heart health effectively.