In recent years, you may have heard claims that drinking red wine can be good for your heart. Well, what about white wine or other types of alcohol? Is there any correlation between coronary artery disease (CAD) and the amount or type of alcohol consumed? These questions were the subject of a new study done with computed tomography angiogram (CCTA) and 1,925 patients.
The November, 2016 study was recently conducted by Julia Karady, MD and Semmelweis University’s MTA-SE Cardiovascular Imaging Research Group, Heart and Vascular Center in Hungary. The researchers used CCTA imaging, which is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging modality that does an excellent job of depicting atherosclerotic lesions in the coronary wall using CT technology. CCTA can determine the presence of coronary plaque and differentiate between different types and characteristics.
The patients were referred for a CCTA due to suspected CAD. Patients were questioned about their alcohol consumption as to the amount they drank within a week and the type of alcohol. Non-drinkers were a part of the study and all types of alcohol were considered. Approximately 40% of the patient reported consuming alcohol regularly, with the average weekly amount around 6.5 drinks.
The CCTA images showed that there is no relationship between light consumption of alcohol or the type of alcohol and the presence of CAD. The research also wasn’t able to determine any benefits found in connection with light consumption of alcohol either, so there is no reason to consume alcohol to protect against CAD.
While it is good news that light alcohol consumption doesn’t appear to have adverse effects on the coronary artery, moderate alcohol consumption is another story. It has shown negative long-term effects on the function and health of the heart, as well as the brain.
Here at Independent Imaging in Palm Beach County, we use the state-of-the-art Toshiba Aquillion 64-Slice CT Scanner, the most advanced multi-slice CT scanner available. CT scanners are used for many common health conditions including vascular and heart disease, producing high-speed, high-resolution imaging at the lowest amount of radiation exposure to you. The images provide the radiologist and doctors with higher quality pictures than conventional X-rays.
We take pride in delivering patient-centered care every day. We talk to you and explain your test and results, and we take the time to listen to your concerns. We hope this adds up to a satisfying and beneficial experience with us.
We have four convenient locations throughout Florida in Wellington, Belle Glade, Lake Worth, and Royal Palm Beach. For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified and fellowship-trained radiologists, call (561) 795-5558 today.
