Coronary heart disease is the third leading cause of death globally, with cisgender women at a higher risk due to size and structural differences in the heart and hormonal changes that occur as women age. A recent study conducted by researchers at Kaiser Permanente Northern California found that a woman’s risk of developing heart disease can also increase depending on the amount of alcohol consumed. The study showed that women who binge drink have a 68% higher risk of developing heart disease compared to a 33% increased risk for men. This suggests that alcohol use should be considered a factor in heart disease risk, and healthcare providers should include questions about alcohol use in routine health assessments.
For the study, more than 430,000 participants aged 18 to 65 with no prior heart disease were analyzed based on their alcohol intake levels. Participants were categorized into low, moderate, and high alcohol intake levels, and also placed in categories based on whether they engaged in binge drinking or not. The researchers found that women who reported high alcohol intake had a 45% increased risk of developing heart disease compared to women with moderate intake, and those who were categorized as binge drinkers had a 68% increased risk. Men with high alcohol intake also had an increased risk of heart disease, but the impact was lower compared to women. This highlights the importance of educating women about the potential heart risks associated with binge drinking.
Dr. Jennifer Wong, a board-certified cardiologist, noted that the study provides valuable information on how alcohol consumption can adversely affect the heart and can be used to encourage patients to decrease their alcohol intake. Monique Richard, a registered dietitian nutritionist, emphasized that while moderate alcohol consumption may have health benefits, excessive drinking can lead to various health issues, including increasing the risk of coronary heart disease. It is important for individuals to be aware of their alcohol consumption levels and take steps to cut back if necessary.
Both Dr. Wong and Richard shared tips on how to reduce alcohol consumption, including setting realistic goals, diluting alcoholic beverages, drinking water between drinks, trying mocktail recipes, and creating a safe environment conducive to alcohol-related goals. They also emphasized the importance of addressing underlying emotions that may contribute to excessive drinking and seeking help from medical professionals as needed. Overall, the study highlights the need for increased awareness of the potential risks of alcohol on heart health and the importance of moderation in alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
