The apparent cardiovascular benefits showed up more in women than in men, although men who drank more coffee seemed to fare better than their counterparts who drank less.

In spite of the length of the studies and the large number of subjects involved, the researchers weren't quite ready to issue a conclusive declaration that drinking coffee promotes heart health. They were characteristically cautious in presenting their findings, noting that other factors common to coffee drinkers might account for their observations. They recommended further study.

Coffee drinkers who don't want to wait another two decades for proof positive that their favorite brew is good for their ticker can at least rest assured that it's doing it no harm.

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