Hospital consultants are heavier drinkers than the general population, with two-out of three admitting to 'binge-drinking' at least once in the previous year, according to a new Irish study.

Also, many consultants take no physical exercise, researchers from Cork University Hospital found.

In a study of 200 consultants in the Munster area, it was found that 94% of them consumed alcohol compared to the national rate of 81%.

Nearly two-thirds consumed alcohol on at least two days a week and the vast majority consumed between one and five units on each occasion. Two units of alcohol equates to a pint of beer or a 100cc glass of wine.

The study found that 63% admitting to binge-drinking, defined as more than six units in a single session, at least once in the preceding year.

The study found that 7.5% of the consultants smoked, compared to 29% of the general population. Both smoking and drinking were more prevalent in women consultants, and among surgeons, it was found.

Smoking rates among consultants in the Irish study, however were higher than those recorded among doctors in in the UK.

One-in three consultants said they were at least moderately active, compared to 71% in the general population.

It was found that a lower proportion of consultants (9.1%) were obese compared to the general population (24%), but a higher proportion of male consultants were overweight than males in the general population.

Fewer female consultants than males were overweight or obese.

Commenting on the results, the doctor authors said smoking rates among doctors are still too high and exercise levels are too low.

They said low exercise levels may be a reflection of busy work schedules, so perhaps work-life balance among doctors needs to be addressed.

"If we are to truly advocate healthy living to our patients then we must endeavour to lead by example."

The researchers said in some cases it seemed to be a case that doctors were saying: 'do as I say, not as I do'.

The study is published in the Irish Medical Journal.