Focus on Prevention and Risk Awareness
Every year on February 4, World Cancer Day serves as a global initiative to raise awareness, improve education and inspire action against cancer. The day highlights the importance of prevention, early detection and treatment, empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward reducing their cancer risk.
“Cancer prevention starts with awareness and making informed lifestyle choices,” said Mehmet Hepgur, M.D., a hematologist-oncologist with the Broward Health Physician Group. “Many risk factors for cancer are within our control, such as maintaining a healthy diet, staying physically active and avoiding harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol.”
Types of Cancers Linked to AlcoholConsumption
According to the American Cancer Society, drinking alcohol is a known contributing factor for several types of cancer.
“Alcohol use is a well-established risk factor for several types of cancer,” Dr. Hepgur said. “When you drink alcohol, it breaks down into acetaldehyde, a chemical that can damage your DNA and interfere with your body’s ability to repair it, paving the way for cancer development.”
- Breast Cancer: Alcohol can increase levels of estrogen and other hormones associated with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), more than 16% of breast cancer cases in the United States are attributable to alcohol consumption.
- Mouth and Throat Cancer: Heavy drinking may irritate the lining of the mouth and throat, making it easier for harmful chemicals to infiltrate cells. According to the National Cancer Institute, moderate drinkers have a 1.8-fold higher risk of mouth cancers than non-drinkers, and heavy drinkers have a 5-fold higher risk. These risks are even higher for those who also use tobacco.
- Esophagus Cancer: Alcohol irritates the lining of the esophagus and causes damage to the cells. The risk of developing esophageal cancer is five times higher for heavy drinkers than for non-drinkers. Even light to moderate drinking increases the risk of esophageal cancer — especially in combination with tobacco use.
- Liver Cancer: Chronic alcohol use damages liver cells and causes inflammation and scarring (cirrhosis), a major risk factor for liver cancer. Drinking three or more drinks per day accounts for 30% of cases of hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type of liver cancer.
- Colon and Rectal Cancer: Alcohol alters the gut microbiome, increases inflammation, and impairs the absorption of folate, which is a vitamin needed for DNA repair. The risk of colorectal cancer increases with heavy alcohol use — consuming more than three drinks per day is associated with a 25% higher risk.
Alcohol and Cancer Risk: How Much is Too Much?
The risk of cancer increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. “Even small amounts can have a significant impact, studies have shown that consuming just one drink per day can increase the risk of breast, mouth and throat cancers,” Dr. Hepgur said.
Recent evidence suggests there is no “safe” amount of alcohol when it comes to preventing cancer. If you choose to consume alcohol, the National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention recommends drinking in moderation, which means no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two for men.
A “drink” is defined as:
- 12 oz. of regular beer (5% alcohol)
- 8 oz. of malt liquor (7% alcohol)
- 5 oz. wine (12% alcohol)
- 1.5 oz. 80-proof liquor (40% alcohol)
“However much you currently drink, reducing your consumption is an important step toward lowering your cancer risk,” said Dr. Hepgur.
Taking Action on World Cancer Day
World Cancer Day is an opportunity to make meaningful health changes. Here are steps you can take to reduce your cancer risk and support global cancer prevention efforts:
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself on cancer risk factors and prevention strategies.
- Schedule Regular Screenings: Early detection significantly improves cancer survival rates.
- Adopt Healthy Habits: A balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can lower cancer risk.
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