This reopens the debate about the validity of the findings of a protective effect for moderate drinkers, and it suggests that studies in the future be better designed to take this potential error into account.

Our results suggest that light drinking is a sign of good health, and not necessarily its cause.

We are not proving anything. But the results are certainly suggestive.

This study was performed in the spirit of the tradition that all scientific findings are open to challenge. Competing hypotheses, even if unpopular, should be encouraged and tested to be sure that accepted beliefs about health are sound.

We know that older people who are light drinkers are usually healthier than their non-drinking peers. Our research suggests light drinking is a sign of good health, not necessarily its cause. Many people reduce their drinking as they get older for a variety of health reasons.

Our parties and Presidential candidates must find ways to differ without being destructive, to debate without demonizing, to put our national interest ahead of special interests, to take the long view rather than the most politically expedient short-term view, to rise above partisan politics to put America first.