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Beneficial effect of moderate alcohol consumption on vascular disease: myth or reality?

Dept. of Molecular Pathology & Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Campus, Royal Free, University College Medical School (University College London), Pond Street, London NW3 2QG, UK

E.S. Ganotakis

Dept. of Molecular Pathology & Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Campus, Royal Free, University College Medical School (University College London), Pond Street, London NW3 2QG, UK

D.P. Mikhailidis

Dept. of Molecular Pathology & Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Campus, Royal Free, University College Medical School (University College London), Pond Street, London NW3 2QG, UK

Moderate ethanol consumption (1-3 drinks/day on 5-6 days/week) has a favourable effect on vascular disease-related mortality and morbidity [especially ischaemic heart disease (IHD)]. This cardioprotective effect may be due to significant effects on cardiovascular risk factors such as high density cholesterol (HDL) concentration (HDL protects from IHD) and an inhibition of platelet aggregation (increased platelet aggregability predicts coronary events).

In contrast, alcoholics and problem drinkers have an excess of IHD-related, and possibly stroke-related, mortality. Excessive alcohol intake may raise the blood pressure. Prolonged alcohol abuse can also result in alcoholic ?? muscle disease. Alcohol is the major cause of non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy in Western society.

Although there is a widespread belief that red ?? protects more than other alcoholic beverages, several studies do not support this interpretation.

Key Words: Alcohol • cardiovascular disease • haemostatic variables • ischaemic heart disease • lipids • peripheral vascular disease • stroke

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