Alcohol consumption ranks as the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States, according to a US Surgeon General report. Each year, alcohol contributes to around 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 cancer-related deaths. The report suggests adding warning labels to alcoholic beverages, akin to those on cigarette packs, to raise awareness.
Impact of Alcohol on Cancer Risk
Even moderate alcohol consumption increases cancer risk. Drinking just one alcoholic beverage daily can elevate the likelihood of breast, mouth, and throat cancers.
Mechanisms Linking Alcohol to Cancer
Alcohol-induced cancer occurs through the following mechanisms:
- DNA Damage: Alcohol is metabolized into acetaldehyde, which can harm DNA and impair repair processes, leading to mutations.
- Oxidation and Inflammation: Acetaldehyde conversion produces unstable oxygen molecules, causing cell damage and inflammation.
- Tobacco Interaction: Alcohol dissolves tobacco carcinogens, enhancing their absorption and cancer risk for smokers.
- Hormonal Changes: Alcohol raises hormone levels, particularly estrogen, increasing risks for breast and ovarian cancers.
Cancers Associated with Alcohol
Alcohol is linked to several cancers, including:
- Breast cancer
- Colon and rectal cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Liver cancer
- Mouth, throat, and laryngeal cancers
Risk Levels Based on Alcohol Consumption
Cancer risk rises with alcohol consumption levels:
- For men drinking less than one drink per week, 10 out of 100 may develop alcohol-related cancer. This rises to 13 out of 100 for two daily drinks.
- For women, breast cancer risk increases from 11 cases per 100 (less than one drink per week) to 15 cases per 100 (two daily drinks).
Standard Alcoholic Drink Definition
The CDC defines one standard drink as:
- 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor
- 5 ounces of wine with 12% alcohol
- 12 ounces of beer with 5% alcohol