Low to moderate alcohol intake decreases venous thromboembolism

Objectives:
The associations of alcohol consumption and venous thromboembolism (VTE) have been investigated widely, but the conclusions were inconsistent. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does alcohol intake decrease risk of venous thromboembolism?

Study design:
This review article included 14 cohort studies and 4 case-control studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, compared with non-drinkers, the risk of venous thromboembolism was significantly decreased with 7% [RR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.88 to 0.99] for alcohol drinkers.

The investigators found, compared with no alcohol intake, the risk of venous thromboembolism was significantly decreased with 9% [RR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.84 to 0.99] for low to moderate alcohol intake (0.1-14.0 drinks/week).

The investigators concluded that low to moderate alcohol intake (0.1-14.0 drinks/week) decreases risk of venous thromboembolism. However, precautions are needed when providing personal drinking advice considering the potential harm of alcohol. Further studies are warranted to determine whether moderate alcohol consumption has a causal role in venous thromboembolism.

Original title:
Meta-analysis of alcohol consumption and venous thromboembolism by Zhang X, Chen X, [...], Li K.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33824981/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on alcohol consumption and cardiovascular disease right here.