Alcohol and Heart - Health Nexus in Lower MiddleIncome Countries: Cardiovascular Risks Study

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases have become a growing concern in lower-middle-income countries, not only as a public health challenge but also as a critical management issue influencing workforce productivity, absenteeism, and organizational performance. Understanding how lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption affect cardiovascular health is vital for developing sustainable workplace health strategies. This study examines the impact of alcohol consumption—classified as wine, beer, and spirits—on cardiovascular diseases while incorporating key determinants such as cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and tobacco use within lower-middle-income countries. Using panel data from 170 countries between 1990 and 2019, this study applies fixed and random effects regression models to explore the relationship between alcohol consumption patterns and cardiovascular disease prevalence. The analysis integrates major lifestyle and health variables to assess their combined impact on national and workforce health outcomes. Findings reveal that alcohol consumption, particularly beer and spirits, has a significant positive association with cardiovascular disease risk, while cholesterol, obesity, and tobacco use further exacerbate these effects. Interestingly, diabetes prevalence demonstrated a negative relationship with cardiovascular disease within lower-middle-income countries. The results underscore the economic and managerial implications of unmanaged lifestyle risks that contribute to lost productivity and healthcare burdens. This study highlights the critical intersection between health behavior and management, suggesting that promoting responsible alcohol consumption and preventive health measures can enhance workforce well-being and productivity. The insights provide valuable guidance for human resource professionals, organizational leaders, and policymakers in designing evidence-based wellness programs, occupational health policies, and strategic interventions aimed at reducing cardiovascular risks in developing economies