[Relation between alcohol consumption and arterial hypertension: epidemiologic approach. By the Task Force on Lyons Action in the Prevention of Hypertension and Atherosclerosis].

In a study of 723 men aged 20 to 59 years, an average daily consumption of 12 ml of alcohol is associated with a 1.4 mm Hg increase in systolic blood pressure.

• Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure increased with higher alcohol consumption.
• The prevalence of blood pressure at or above 160/94 mm Hg also rose with increasing alcohol intake.
• In men aged 40 to 59, the alcohol-blood pressure association remained significant after adjusting for age, weight, and education.
• In younger men under 40, the association was less clear but still statistically significant.
• Higher blood pressure observed in nondrinkers aged 50 to 59 may relate to a greater prevalence of obesity among them.
• Controlling alcohol intake may help in preventing essential hypertension, alongside managing salt consumption and weight.

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