Reducing Cardiovascular Risks: The Role of Alcohol Use

The purpose of this study is to learn whether avoiding alcohol can improve heart and blood vessel health in adults who regularly drink alcohol and have high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart attack and stroke. In this randomized, controlled trial, men and women aged 26 to 49 years who regularly consume alcohol and have high blood pressure will be assigned by chance to either stop drinking alcohol or continue their usual drinking habits for 8 weeks. Researchers will compare changes in blood pressure and other cardiovascular disease risk factors between the two groups. The information gained from this study may help researchers and health care providers better understand the effects of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular health and whether alcohol abstinence can reduce heart disease risk, especially in adults with high blood pressure.