Excessive alcohol consumption raises the risk of developing cancer. Research links six types of cancer to high alcohol intake, including breast, colorectal, and liver cancers. In 2019, 5.4% of cancers in the United States resulted from alcohol consumption. Fortunately, individuals can lower their cancer risk by reducing their alcohol intake.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) published its 2024 Cancer Progress Report on September 18. This report emphasizes a significant connection between alcohol use and six specific types of cancer. Alarmingly, younger adults increasingly face the risk of these cancers.
The Importance of Reducing Alcohol Intake
The AACR indicates that approximately 40% of all cancers in the United States relate to modifiable risk factors. These factors include alcohol consumption, tobacco use, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet. By lowering alcohol consumption, people can significantly decrease their chances of developing certain cancers.
According to a 2022 study cited in the AACR report, increased alcohol consumption correlates with higher risks for alcohol-related and all cancers. In contrast, quitting or reducing alcohol intake leads to lower risks.
For those who reduce or eliminate alcohol, the risk of developing alcohol-related cancers decreases by 8%. Their overall cancer risk can decline by 4%, as the report shows. This data compares individuals who continue drinking at the same level or increase their intake.
Cancers Linked to Alcohol Use
Excessive alcohol consumption raises the risk for six types of cancer:
- Certain types of head and neck cancer
- Breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
- Liver cancer
- Stomach cancers
The 2019 report noted that 5.4% of all cancers in the U.S. linked to alcohol consumption. Moreover, early drinking can elevate the risk of developing cancer later in life. Research also indicates that moderate to high alcohol intake during pregnancy may increase the child’s risk of developing leukemia after birth.
Rising Cancer Rates Among Young Adults
While the overall cancer death rate in the United States declined from 1991 to 2021, early-onset cancers—those appearing in adults under 50—are on the rise. The report highlights increasing cases of breast and colorectal cancer among younger adults.
Public Awareness and Alcohol Risks
Many people remain unaware of the cancer risks associated with alcohol consumption. A survey by researchers at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center revealed that 51% of participants did not associate alcohol use with colon cancer. Conversely, many recognized family history as a risk factor for this disease.
Dr. Nilesh Vora, a hematologist and medical oncologist, expressed concern over the lack of awareness regarding the link between alcohol consumption and certain cancers. “It’s surprising that many people are unaware of this connection,” he stated.
To combat this issue, the AACR advocates for improved public health messaging. Similar to past campaigns that educated people about the dangers of tobacco, effective communication can reduce lung cancer deaths.
Recommendations for Safer Alcohol Consumption
To lower the incidence of alcohol-related cancers, the AACR provides guidelines based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. If you choose to drink, moderation is essential: for women, this means one or fewer drinks per day, while men should limit themselves to two or fewer.
“It’s excessive levels of alcohol consumption that increase cancer risk,” Dr. Vora explained. “Staying below moderate levels is crucial.”
Conclusion
Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk for six cancer types: certain head and neck cancers, breast, colorectal, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, liver, and stomach cancers. In 2019, 5.4% of cancers in the U.S. linked to alcohol consumption. Early drinking can also heighten the risk of developing cancer in later years.
By reducing alcohol intake, individuals can significantly decrease their cancer risk. The American Association for Cancer Research emphasizes the need for public health messaging regarding the cancer-related risks of alcohol consumption.
