Cohort Studies From Around the World Link Moderation to Longevity

Cohort Studies From Around the World Link Moderation to Longevity

In recent years dozens of cohort studies from all over the world have associated moderate alcohol consumption with reduced risk for cardiovascular disease, decreased overall mortality rates and other potentially improved health conditions. This growing worldwide research consensus has resulted in certain changes in the world view of alcohol during just the last few years. In a significant departure form the past, major public health organizations and governments around the world now officially recognize that moderation can be part of a healthful diet for those who choose to drink. The World Health Organization, the United States government, the United Kingdom¡¯s government and the American Heart Association are among the health policy leaders that recently have issued balanced alcohol statements expressing caution in terms of alcohol abuse, but highlighting scientific findings that associate cardiovascular benefits with moderate consumption.

In varying degrees, wine, beer and spirits have been shown to confer certain health advantages for those who consume in moderation. The most recent review study on the subject of alcohol and longevity was by esteemed British epidemiologist Richard Doll, M.D. In the British Medical Journal, Doll concluded, ¡°The consumption of small and moderate amounts of alcohol reduces mortality from vascular disease by about a third.¡± In his review, Doll looked over three dozen studies published over the last decade. We will discuss some of these cohort studies from around the world which are highlighted in the table below.