Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol can be addictive for some individuals and its effects on the heart are not to be left without mentioning. Alcohol abuse is defined as when the drinking pattern of an individual interferes with their daily activities. People with alcohol abuse are not dependent on alcohol, but many will be if they continue their drinking habit. In the US more than 3 million people abuse alcohol.
Heavy drinking is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and atrial fibrillation. Alcohol is a metabolic stressor, and when it is abused your body responds accordingly. Furthermore, a study published by the Journal of American College of Cardiology, found that even moderate drinking is associated with an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Moderate alcohol consumption is defined as having up to four alcoholic drinks per day for men and three per day for women.
