Alcohol consumption patterns and traditional beverages associated with hypertension subtypes

Alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for hypertension, a prevalent condition that substantially affects cardiovascular health. In Peru, where various traditional alcoholic beverages exist, the relationship between alcohol consumption and hypertension has not been fully explored. A study sought to determine the association between different patterns of alcohol consumption, types of beverages, and various types of hypertension.
The cross-sectional analytical study used data from the Peruvian Demographic and Family Health Survey (2018–2023), including 236,243 adults (55.95% male; mean age: 41.06 years). General hypertension, isolated systolic hypertension (ISH), isolated diastolic hypertension (IDH), and systolic-diastolic hypertension (SDH) were evaluated. Alcohol consumption was assessed through self-reported questionnaires evaluating consumption pattern (non-excessive vs. excessive), intensity (light, moderate, heavy), consistency (intermittent vs. consistent), and primary beverage type, including both commercial and traditional Peruvian drinks.
Excessive alcohol use was linked to a higher risk of high blood pressure. People who drank excessively were 19% more likely to have hypertension overall. They were 61% more likely to have isolated diastolic hypertension and 45% more likely to have both systolic and diastolic hypertension. Drinking traditional beverages such as chicha and masato was also linked to a higher risk of different types of high blood pressure. In contrast, wine consumption was linked to a lower risk of overall hypertension and isolated diastolic hypertension.
Alcohol consumption patterns and beverage types have differential effects on hypertension risk in the Peruvian population. These findings underscore the need for culturally adapted prevention strategies and more nuanced public health recommendations regarding alcohol consumption in Peru.
Source: Zuzunaga-Montoya, F.E., Ballena-Caicedo, J., Rivera-Lozada, O., Valladares-Garrido, M.J., Zila Velasque, J.P.E., Vera-Ponce, V.J. Alcohol Consumption Patterns and Traditional Beverages Associated with Hypertension Subtypes. Medical Sciences. 2026; 14(1):60.