The US Surgeon General issued a new advisory about alcohol consumption and the increased risk of cancer.

Alcohol consumption is the third leading preventable cause of cancer, yet many people are unaware of this association. As a matter of fact, less than half of US adults are aware that alcohol use increases the risk of developing cancer.

In the United States, alcohol contributes to nearly 100,000 cancer cases and about 20,000 cancer deaths each year. The good news is that alcohol-related cancers are preventable. By reducing alcohol consumption, people can significantly lower their risk.  

Alcohol and Cancer Risk

The more alcohol consumed, the greater the risk of cancer. For certain cancers, like breast, mouth, and throat cancers, evidence shows that this risk may start to increase around one or fewer drinks per day.  

How Does Alcohol Cause Cancer?

There are several ways in which alcohol can cause cancer. Alcohol breaks down into acetaldehyde in the body. Acetaldehyde is a metabolite that causes cancer by binding to DNA and damaging it. When DNA is damaged, a cell can begin to grow uncontrollably and create a cancerous tumor.  

Alcohol generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), which increase inflammation and can damage DNA, proteins, and lipids in the body through a process called oxidation.

Alcohol alters hormone levels (including estrogen), which can play a role in the development of breast cancer. Carcinogens from other sources, especially particles of tobacco smoke, can dissolve in alcohol, making it easier for them to be absorbed into the body, increasing the risk for mouth and throat cancers.  

Types of Alcohol-Related Cancers

Alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing at least seven types of cancer:  

  • Breast cancer (in women)  
  • Colorectal cancer  
  • Esophageal cancer  
  • Liver cancer  
  • Mouth cancer (oral cavity)  
  • Throat cancer (pharynx)  
  • Voice box cancer (larynx)  

What Can Be Done to Reduce Alcohol-Related Cancers?

There are several things that can be done to reduce alcohol-related cancers:

  • Increase public awareness. Many people are unaware of the link between alcohol consumption and cancer risk. Public education campaigns can help to raise awareness of this important issue.  
  • Change the warning label on alcoholic beverages. The warning label on alcoholic beverages could be updated to include information about the risk of cancer.  
  • Reassess recommended limits for alcohol consumption. The recommended limits for alcohol consumption could be reassessed in light of the latest evidence on alcohol and cancer risk.  
  • Provide support for people who want to reduce their alcohol consumption. There are many resources available to help people who want to reduce or stop drinking alcohol.  

The Importance of Proactive Health and Cancer Screenings

Being proactive with your health is crucial in the fight against cancer. This includes regular cancer screenings, which can help detect cancer early, when it is most treatable. Here are some recommended screenings and their frequencies:

  • Mammogram: It is recommended by the American Cancer Society that women starting at age 40 should get a a mammogram every 1-2 years.
  • Colonoscopy: Starting at age 45, both men and women should have a colonoscopy every 10 years.
  • Cervical Cancer: Women should have a Pap smear every 3 years starting at age 21.
  • Prostate Exam: Men should discuss prostate cancer screening with their doctor starting at age 50 for men at average risk and as young as 40 for high-risk individuals.
  • Low-dose CT scans: Used to screen for lung cancer, especially for people who smoke or have a history of smoking.
  • Skin cancer exams: Used to look for melanoma.

Full Body MRI Screening from Bionicc Body Screening

A full-body MRI screening, such as the one offered by Bionicc Body Screening, can provide a comprehensive picture of your health. This non-invasive scan can detect a wide range of cancers, often at their earliest stages.

The benefits of a full-body MRI screening include:

  • Early detection: Cancers can be detected before symptoms appear.
  • Comprehensive evaluation: A wide range of cancers can be detected.
  • Non-invasive: No radiation exposure is involved.
  • Peace of mind: Can provide reassurance about your health or identify areas needing further investigation.

Remember, early detection is key to successful cancer treatment. By being proactive and taking advantage of available screenings, you can significantly increase your chances of a positive outcome.

The Bottom Line

Alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for cancer. By reducing alcohol consumption, we can significantly reduce the number of cancer cases and deaths each year.

Everyone needs to be proactive with their health. Talk to your doctor about cancer screenings, start cancer screenings at the recommended ages and never miss a recommended screening.