Cardiovascular benefit of light to moderate alcohol consumption.

BACKGROUND: In recent years strong epidemiological evidence has arisen associating significant cardiovascular benefit with light to moderate alcohol consumption. Increased benefit in high cardiovascular risk individuals has been particularly evident. With Australian levels of obesity and type 2 diabetes now reaching epidemic proportions, lifestyle factors that can reduce cardiovascular risk are of critical importance. OBJECTIVE: This article aims to inform general practitioners of the potential cardiovascular benefit of light to moderate alcohol consumption. DISCUSSION: In offering tailored alcohol advice to patients, the GP should have two goals: to minimise harm and maximise benefit. Blanket discouragement of all levels of alcohol consumption can no longer be justified.