Binge drinking ‘can lead to high blood pressure’

Young people who engage in binge drinking could be increasing their risk of experiencing high blood pressure, according to a new study.

The University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre study collated data on alcohol consumption at age 20 among 756 participants, before another check was performed at age 24. At this time, patients' systolic blood pressure was also taken.

It was shown that more than one in four young adults who binge-drink met the criteria for prehypertension, a condition that can progress to hypertension, heart disease and premature death.

Blood pressure levels among young adults aged 20 to 24 who binge-drink was two to four millimetres of mercury higher than non-binge-drinkers.

The study also revealed that 85 percent of young adults who drink heavily at age 20 maintain this behaviour at age 24, underlining the need for a change in habits to prevent these negative health consequences.

Jennifer O'Loughlin, the study's senior author, said: "Since we know there is a link between higher blood pressure and the risk of developing chronic diseases, clinicians should ask young people about their alcohol consumption."