BINGE WATCH

At the intersection of heart health and alcohol consumption lies a common misconception Chueh-Lung “Laura” Hwang hopes to debunk.

“Many people believe ‘light-to-moderate’ alcohol consumption is good for heart health,” she says. “The truth is, the connection between heart health and alcohol is complex and we don’t really know its full impact.”

Following postdoctoral research at the University of Illinois–Chicago, where she studied blood vessel function and binge drinking in young adults, Dr. Hwang joined CONHI’s Kinesiology Department in January 2022 as an assistant professor. In addition to her research, she also brings extensive experience as a physical therapist for patients with cardiopulmonary diseases.

At UTA, Hwang plans to continue her investigation and begin studies that focus on the relationship that binge drinking and exercise have on blood pressure. She knows firsthand the need for more research around the impact of alcohol on our well-being, as some patients would report drinking in excess and claim it was good for their health.

Without a proper understanding and more scientific evidence about the ill effects of alcohol on the heart, it can be difficult to recognize its effect in younger adults. This, along with her passion for scientific discovery of cardiovascular physiology, prompted her to explore the correlation between alcohol and heart health as we age.

“As we age, our cardiovascular function declines. Does drinking accelerate the decline in cardiovascular function during aging?” asks Hwang. “This is one of the questions I would like to answer through my research program.”

2001-05

The undergraduate program in Athletic Training received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

The first Exercise Science Research Laboratories built in the Maverick Activities Center.