While moderate alcohol consumption (one or two drinks a day) reduces the risk of CVD, at high levels of intake – particularly in 'binges' – the risk of CVD is increased.

The World Health Report 2002 estimates that over 9% of all disease burden in developed countries is caused by alcohol consumption and that 2% of CHD and almost 5% of stroke in men in developed countries is due to alcohol. However, the impact of alcohol consumption in women in developed countries is estimated to be positive – if no alcohol were consumed, there would be a 3% increase in CHD and a 16% increase in stroke.

The Government currently advises that 'regular consumption of between three and four units a day by men' and 'between two and three units a day by women of all ages will not lead to any significant health risk'. Consuming in excess of four units on the heaviest drinking day of the week in men, or over three units in women, is not advised, and the Government recommendations on sensible drinking are now based on these daily benchmarks.  This advice is consistent with previous advice, based on weekly alcohol consumption; that men should drink less than 21 units a week and women less than 14 units a week.