Alcohol and Cancer: What You Need to Know
- schottanastasia
- Jan 17
- 1 min read
A report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services highlights the undeniable link between alcohol consumption and cancer. Alcohol is responsible for about 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 deaths annually in the U.S. While federal dietary guidelines have historically allowed for moderate drinking, the science reveals a different reality.
Alcohol contributes to cancer through several mechanisms:
DNA Damage: Alcohol metabolites can directly harm DNA, leading to mutations.
Hormonal Changes: Increased hormone levels, such as estrogen, elevate the risk of cancers like breast cancer.
Oxidative Stress: Alcohol induces cellular stress, increasing cancer susceptibility.
Absorption of Carcinogens: Alcohol enhances the body’s intake of harmful substances.
The report emphasizes that no amount of alcohol is completely safe when it comes to cancer risk. By reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption, individuals can take a proactive step toward lowering their cancer risk.
