The US surgeon general warns that even light or moderate drinking increases the risk of cancer. A new report finds that alcohol consumption is linked to at least seven types of cancers, including mouth, throat, breast, and liver cancer. The risk rises with the amount consumed, with men being more susceptible than women due to slower metabolism.
The definition of a standard drink includes 14 grams of alcohol, equivalent to about a 5-ounce glass of wine or a 12-ounce beer. Research shows that even up to one drink per day can increase cancer risk. The study found that women who consumed less than one drink per week had a 17% chance of developing alcohol-related cancers, while men had a 10% chance.
The report also highlights the dangers of binge drinking and heavy drinking, with four or more drinks a day linked to increased risks of various cancers. Experts stress that quitting or reducing alcohol consumption can lower cancer risk, but it’s unclear when cutting back will bring the risk back down to baseline levels.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/03/well/alcohol-cancer-risk.html