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Can physical activity offset the implications of alcohol drinking?

Title
Can physical activity offset the implications of alcohol drinking?

Research Area
Health 

Author
Perreault, K et al; British Journal of Sports Medicine

Summary of Findings
This pooled analysis of eight British population cohorts aimed to examine whether physical activity moderates the associated between alcohol intake and all cause cancer and cardiovascular disease mortality. 36,370 participants were selected for this piece of research and their alcohol intake and physical activity levels were categorised. Follow ups were completed to establish rates of cancer and cardiovascular disease mortality. Researchers established a direct association between alcohol consumption and cancer mortality risk. They also found that for those who met the recommended physical activity levels the risk was significantly reduced though not completely counteracting the increase caused by alcohol consumption.

Implications
The researchers concluded that meeting the current activity public health recommendations offsets some of the cancer and all-cause mortality risk associated with alcohol drinking, whilst not completely counteracting them. This sort of evidence could be a powerful tool in persuading people to make small lifestyle changes without making them feel like they have to stop doing everything they enjoy.