[Moderate alcohol consumption - healthy or risky? A critical perspective on existing research and WHO guidelines].

The health effects of moderate alcohol consumption are controversially discussed in the scientific community. Older studies suggested cardiovascular benefits, but newer data indicate these are likely overestimated due to methodological biases. At the same time, there is growing evidence that even small amounts of alcohol increase the risk of cancer. Therefore, the WHO emphasizes in its new guidelines 2023, that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption. However, this view is challenged by recent research from groups like the AHA and the USA NASEM as well as concerns over possible conflicts of interest and lack of transparency in WHO's decision-making. Therefore, any potential changes to Swiss recommendations should await the results of the ongoing prospective, randomized UNATI trial.