Alcohol drinking may be a lifestyle factor that increases the risk of atrial fibrillation.
Atrial fibrillation is a major risk factor for stroke. This study evaluated how the intake of alcohol affects the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Researchers looked at lifestyle and clinical data drawn out of 14 studies that analyzed detrimental effects of alcohol on heart health.
Researchers discovered that regular drinking of alcohol correlated with increased risk of acquiring atrial fibrillation. "Results of this meta-analysis suggest that not consuming alcohol is most favorable in terms of AF risk reduction," concluded the authors.