A recent study conducted by the American College of Cardiology found that women who consume more than eight alcoholic beverages per week are at an increased risk of developing heart disease. The study, which aimed to explore the link between alcohol intake and coronary heart disease, was based on data collected from over 432,000 individuals aged 18 to 65 who were part of the Kaiser Permanente health care system in Northern California. Among the participants, researchers noted that women who binge-drink are at an even greater risk for heart disease compared to those who consume alcohol in moderation.
The study revealed that even low levels of alcohol intake can impact heart health, with weekly consumption levels of 1-2 drinks for both men and women considered to be low, while moderate consumption levels were defined as 3-14 drinks for men and 3-7 drinks for women. High intake levels were classified as 15 or more drinks per week for men and 8 or more drinks for women. Over a four-year follow-up period, researchers observed a correlation between higher levels of alcohol consumption and an increased risk of coronary heart disease, with women who reported high intake levels having a 33%-51% higher risk compared to those with low intake levels.
Dr. Jamal Rana, the lead author of the study and a cardiologist, emphasized the importance of awareness around the potential risks of alcohol use in relation to heart disease. He noted that there is a common belief that alcohol may be beneficial for heart health, but the evidence challenges that notion. Rana highlighted the need for routine assessment of alcohol intake as part of health evaluations to better identify individuals at risk for heart disease. The study also examined additional cardiovascular risk factors such as age, smoking habits, and physical activity levels to provide a comprehensive analysis of the participants.
Despite the higher risk of heart disease associated with alcohol consumption, Rana pointed out that women’s bodies metabolize alcohol differently than men’s due to physiological differences. This may contribute to the increased risk of heart disease among women, particularly those who exceed recommended intake levels or engage in binge-drinking. The study results are set to be presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session in Atlanta in April, with Rana scheduled to share findings on habitual alcohol intake and its impact on cardiovascular disease.
While the study shed light on the potential risks of alcohol consumption in relation to heart health, Rana acknowledged the limitations of relying on self-assessment intake forms from the participants. There is a possibility that individuals may have underreported their alcohol intake, which could have affected the study’s outcomes. The preliminary findings of the study suggest that even young and middle-aged women who consume alcohol above recommended levels may be at risk for developing heart disease, challenging perceptions of alcohol’s impact on heart health. Further research and awareness are needed to better understand the relationship between alcohol intake and cardiovascular health.
