Cancer risk based on alcohol consumption levels

Alcohol consumption is a well-established risk factor for cancer. Despite extensive research into the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer risk, the effect of light alcohol consumption on cancer risk remains a topic of debate. To contribute to this discourse, researchers conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis.
A systematic review investigated the associations between different levels of alcohol consumption and the risk of several cancer types. Prospective associations were analysed using data from 139 cohort studies. Among them, 106 studies were included in a meta-analysis.
The analysis did not find a significant association between light alcohol consumption and all-cause cancer risk (relative risk [RR]=1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.99-1.04), but a dose-response relationship was observed. Light alcohol consumption was significantly associated with higher risks of esophageal, colorectal, and breast cancers. Light to moderate drinking was associated with elevated risks of esophageal, colorectal, laryngeal, and breast cancers. Heavy drinking was also found to contribute to the risk of stomach, liver, pancreas, and prostate cancers, thereby increasing the risk of almost all types of cancer. Additionally, women generally had lower cancer risks compared to men.
The findings highlight that cancer risks extend beyond heavy alcohol consumption to include light alcohol consumption as well. These findings suggest that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption associated with cancer risk. The results underscore the importance of public health interventions addressing alcohol consumption to mitigate cancer risks.
Source: Jun S, Park H, Kim UJ, Choi EJ, Lee HA, Park B, Lee SY, Jee SH, Park H. Cancer risk based on alcohol consumption levels: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. Epidemiol Health. 2023 Oct 16:e2023092.