Alcohol consumption and hypertension: a review with suggested implications

Alcohol abuse and hypertension are two important health concerns for the general US population. A review of the literature indicates, however, that black Americans are at greater risk of experiencing primary and secondary health and behavioral problems associated with these two concerns. Empirical evidence exists suggesting a relationship between alcohol consumption and hypertension and its related sequelae. Although the correlation is not of a dose-effect nature, the results of numerous longitudinal and other studies have suggested a positive relationship. Various implications exist in the treatment, control, and prevention of hypertension for highrisk groups. For example, existing health-care protocols may be modified for regular screening and monitoring of "excessive" alcohol consumption patterns, especially of hypertensive and borderline hypertensive patients. Whenever possible, health-care counseling and education should be a necessary adjunct to treatment and prevention efforts to better control hypertension in the black community.