FROM Medical tribune www.medicaltribune.net:Binge drinking risks CV health

In brief,the cardiovascular benefits of moderate alcohol consumption do not apply to young people. In fact, binge drinking may put them especially at risk for developing atherosclerosis.

In a 15 year follow-up of >3,000 young drinkers, U.S researcgers found a direct dise response between alcohol concumption and coronary calcification. The prevalence of atherosclerosis increased significantly in ppl who drank >14/drinks per week. [Am. J. Epidemiolo 2005;161:423-22].

In the elderly,moderate alcohol consumption of 1 unit-2 units confers slight protection against CV disease.