J-curve association between alcohol intake and varicose veins in Japan 

The effect of alcohol intake on varicose veins (VV) has not been determined by its consumption level. A study in Japan investigated the association between alcohol intake and VV in an elderly general population.
1060 participants from the Shimane CoHRE Study data were analysed. The was analysis adjusted with basic characteristics, past work history, lifestyle- related factors and medical history. Compared with non-drinkers, mild drinkers (<20.0 g/day) showed a significantly lower adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of VV (aOR = 0.64, P = 0.036). In a similar way, regular drinkers (1-5 days/week) showed a significantly lower aOR of VV when compared with occasional drinkers (aOR = 0.57, P = 0.032).
Varicose veins and alcohol intake showed J-curve relationships. In a stratified analysis by alcohol consumption levels, the association of smoking and VV were also observed in moderate to heavy drinkers and habitual drinkers. These findings can provide better understanding of pathophysiological mechanism and be used for evidence-based patient education, the authors say.
Source: J-curve association between alcohol intake and varicose veins in Japan: The Shimane CoHRE Study. Kohno K, Niihara H, Hamano T, Takeda M, Nakagawa Y1, Shiwaku K, Nabika T, Zöller B, Li X, Sundquist K, Sundquist J, Morita E. J Dermatol. 2019 Oct;46(10):902-906.