Alcohol and cancer: A hidden consequence
Most Americans are unaware of the true impact of alcohol on the body
Alcohol has integrated itself into every aspect of culture, serving as a social lubricant, escape and means of celebration for many. While some consumers are aware of the risks associated with drinking, many do not know the true impact of alcohol on the body. A recent study, published by the American Journal for Preventive Medicine, found that less than a third of adults knew that alcohol increases cancer risk.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) states that there is strong scientific consensus that drinking alcohol can cause several different types of cancer, leading it to be classified by the government as a carcinogen. Head, neck, esophageal, liver, breast and colorectal cancers have all been linked with alcohol consumption. This list will most likely only expand in the future, due to more research confirming causation. For heavy drinkers, the risks for some of these cancers are as great as a fivefold increase. Overall, the evidence suggests that the more a person drinks, particularly regularly, the higher the risk of developing alcohol-associated cancer.
Experts have hypothesized several reasons for why this alcohol-cancer link may exist. During the breakdown of alcohol in the body, a chemical compound is created that can damage both DNA and proteins. Additionally, free radicals could be generated which would also damage DNA, proteins and fats. Alcohol may also impair the body from absorbing and breaking down key nutrients that are associated with cancer risk. Finally, alcoholic beverages can contain a variety of carcinogenic contaminants that are introduced during production and fermentation. Regardless of whether one is drinking beer, wine or liquor – alcohol itself will cause damage.
Unfortunately, studies have shown that stopping the consumption of alcohol doesn’t immediately lead to a cancer-risk reduction. Eventually, the risk will decline, but it could take years for the risk of the ex-drinker to become similar to someone that never drank. The NCI gives an example of how former drinkers had a higher risk for oral and pharyngeal cancers even after abstaining from alcohol for 16 years. Other studies estimated 35 years for risk levels to fully decrease. For all the reasons above, the federal government has recommended that individuals who do not drink should not start drinking for any reason.
Because of the grave impacts of alcohol on the body, many have been petitioning for warning labels to be placed on drinks that would outline the risks of consumption. In the meantime, raising awareness on this issue is critical. Few things are more important than making smart and informed decisions about your health and lifestyle.
By: Nicole Hardt