Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Cardiovascular Diseases and Peripheral Artery Disease
A. Impact on Cardiovascular Health
Light Alcohol Consumption May Offer Limited Cardiovascular Protection
Observational data suggest that low levels of alcohol intake (1–2 drinks per day) may be associated with no increased risk or a possible reduction in the risk of coronary artery disease, stroke, sudden cardiac death, and potentially heart failure.
Heavy Drinking Consistently Increases Cardiovascular Risk
Regular intake of ≥3 drinks per day or binge drinking is consistently linked with worse cardiovascular outcomes across all disease entities studied, including hypertension, arrhythmias, cardiomyopathy, and stroke.
B. Impact on Peripheral Artery Disease
Evidence on Atrial Fibrillation Remains Inconclusive
The relationship between low-to-moderate alcohol intake and atrial fibrillation remains unclear, highlighting the need for targeted studies on arrhythmogenic risk at lower consumption thresholds.
U-Shaped Relationship Between Alcohol and PAD
A consistent U-shaped association was found between alcohol intake and the risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD), indicating that both abstinence and high consumption may be associated with elevated risk, while light consumption shows potential benefit.
Lowest PAD Risk at Light Alcohol Intake
The lowest risk of PAD was observed at an alcohol consumption level of up to 2 drinks per week, suggesting that very light drinking may have a protective cardiovascular effect, particularly against PAD.
Elevated Risk with High Consumption (≥10 Drinks/Week)
PAD risk becomes significantly pronounced at levels of ≥10 drinks per week, supporting the robust evidence that heavy drinking is consistently harmful to cardiovascular health.
C. Impact on General Health
Caution Against Promoting Alcohol for Health Benefits
Given the uncertain benefits and well-documented risks, alcohol should not be promoted as part of a healthy lifestyle. Public messaging should be clear and grounded in harm reduction principles.
Reinforcing Proven Lifestyle Interventions Remains Critical
Clinicians should continue to emphasize proven health behaviours such as regular physical activity, smoking cessation, and healthy weight maintenance rather than relying on unproven or controversial protective effects of alcohol.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while low levels of alcohol consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of certain cardiovascular conditions, the evidence remains largely observational and inconclusive especially regarding atrial fibrillation. In contrast, higher levels of alcohol intake are consistently linked to adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
