Alcohol and The Risk of Cancer

ALCOHOL & THE RISK OF CANCER 3 Quick Facts Heavy or regular intake of alcohol increases I the risk of developing cancers of the: Oral cavity Layrnx Esophgaus Liver Colon • Pharynx Breast Rectum The Consumption of alcoholic beverages is known to be a human carcinogen 3. 3.5% of all cancer deaths (19,500 people) in the United States are alcohol related ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION IS LÍNKED TO THESE TYPES OF CANCERS HEAD & NECK • Includes the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx • Consuming 3.5 drinks / day increases the risk of developing these types of cancer by 2-3x ESOPHAGEAL Alcohol increases the risk of developing esophageal squamous cell carcinoma BREAST • Consuming 3+ drinks / day increase the risk of developing breast cancer by 1.5x LIVER • Alcohol is a primary cause of hepatocellular carcinoma COLORECTAL • Consuming 3.5 drinks / day increases the risk of developing colorect cancer by 1.5x ALCOHOL'S CARCINOGENIC CONTAMINANTS Nitrosamines Asbestos Fibers Phenols Hydrobcarbons COMBINATION OF ALCOHOL & TOBACCO When used in combination with each other, your risk can greatly increase for developing cancer, especially oral & pharyngeal types of cancers. WHAT ABOUT WINE? "I have read that drinking red wine in moderation can be healthy." There is some truth to this statement. According to certain studies, red wine has been said to have certain substances, such as reseveratrol, that hold anti-cancer properties. DOES THIS CHANGE YOUR VIEW ON ALCOHOL? Source: National Cancer Institute