Drinking pattern and mortality in Danish nurses.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Moderate alcohol consumption has beneficial effects on survival. Sex differences, however, have been suggested implying less beneficial effect among women. We examined the impact of alcohol consumed on weekdays and at weekends, respectively, on risk of death among women.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

At baseline in 1993, a total of 17 772 female members of the Danish Nurse Association completed questionnaires on alcohol intake and other lifestyle factors. The influence of alcohol intake on risk of death was analyzed using Cox proportional hazard model.

RESULTS

Alcohol intake of 1-3 drinks per week was associated with the lowest risk of death. Intake above six drinks per weekend (Friday through Sunday) increased risk of death from all causes by 3% for each additional drink consumed per weekend (corresponding to an increased risk by 9% per drink per weekend day). Consumption of one or more drinks per weekday (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday) increased risk by 4% for each additional drink consumed per day.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicated an increasing risk of death for intake above six drinks per weekend and of one or more drinks per weekday.