Coronary heart disease is the third leading cause of death globally, with cisgender women at a higher risk due to structural and hormonal differences. A recent study from Kaiser Permanente Northern California found that a woman’s risk of developing heart disease may increase depending on the amount of alcohol consumed. The study, presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session, revealed that women who binge drink have a 68% higher risk of developing heart disease compared to a 33% increased risk for men. Researchers emphasize the importance of considering alcohol use as a factor in heart disease risk assessment, urging healthcare providers to inquire about alcohol consumption during routine health assessments.
The study analyzed alcohol use data from over 430,000 participants who had no prior heart disease, categorizing them into three levels of alcohol intake: low, moderate, and high. Participants were also categorized by whether they engaged in binge drinking. Women who reported high alcohol intake but did not binge drink had a 45% increased chance of developing heart disease compared to those with moderate intake, while women in the binge drinking category experienced a 68% higher risk. Men with high alcohol intake also faced an increased risk of heart disease, with those who engaged in binge drinking having a 33% elevated risk. These findings highlight the need to educate women about the potential heart risks associated with binge drinking and for healthcare providers to consider alcohol intake as part of heart disease prevention discussions.
Dr. Jamal Rana, lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about how alcohol consumption can impact heart health, especially in light of the common belief that alcohol is good for the heart. Women metabolize alcohol differently than men, making them more susceptible to the negative effects of excessive alcohol consumption. The study’s results suggest that even in young and middle-aged women, alcohol intake above the recommended limits can increase the risk of coronary heart disease. Dr. Rana underscored the significance of addressing alcohol use as a vital sign during medical appointments to better assess overall heart disease risk.
Dr. Jennifer Wong, a cardiologist, applauded the study for providing valuable information on the adverse effects of alcohol on the heart, supporting doctors in encouraging patients to reduce their alcohol intake. Monique Richard, a registered dietitian, reiterated the importance of moderation in alcohol consumption due to its various negative impacts on overall health, including increased blood pressure and risk factors for heart disease. As past studies have suggested benefits of moderate alcohol consumption, current research sheds light on the risks associated with exceeding recommended alcohol limits, particularly for women.
To help individuals cut back on alcohol consumption, experts recommend setting realistic goals, gradually reducing alcohol intake, diluting beverages, staying hydrated, trying mocktail recipes, creating a supportive environment, and seeking professional help when needed. Dr. Wong stressed that no alcohol is the best option for heart health, advising men to limit intake to two drinks per day and women to one drink per day. By understanding and addressing the negative effects of excessive alcohol consumption, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce their risk of coronary heart disease and prioritize heart-healthy habits.
