If you’ve seen the headlines about the Surgeon General calling for cancer warning labels on alcoholic beverages, you might have some questions.
Why does alcohol cause cancer, and what does this mean for your health?
We turned to Peter Yu, MD, the physician-in-chief at the Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute, to break it down for us. Here’s what you need to know about alcohol’s risks and whether it’s safe to drink.
Alcohol is a cancer risk.
Alcohol is viewed by many as a way to unwind or socialize with friends. But did you know its also the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the U.S., behind tobacco and obesity? That’s according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
“All forms of alcohol have a link to an increased risk of several cancers, including cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, breast, colon and liver,” says Dr. Yu.
And it’s not the type of alcohol you drink that matters—it’s how much.
“The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed,” explains Dr. Yu. “Even 1-2 drinks per day can raise your risk.”
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How exactly does alcohol cause cancer?
The answer lies in science.
Dr. Yu explains how alcohol contributes to cancer risk:
- Alcohol is an irritant, causing oxidative stress and inflammation, which raises the risk for cancers of the mouth and digestive system.
- When alcohol metabolizes in the body, it turns into acetaldehyde—a carcinogen that can alter DNA.
- Alcohol raises estrogen levels and lowers folate levels, both linked to higher cancer risk.
- It’s also a high-calorie source, contributing to obesity—another cancer risk factor.
“Cigarette smokers are even more vulnerable to alcohol-related cancer risks,” adds Dr. Yu. “They’re exposed to two carcinogens that amplify the risk of the same types of cancer.”
Should you stop drinking?
Any alcohol carries some increased risk of cancer — but what about drinking in moderation?
“There isn’t an absolutely safe level of alcohol consumption, and generally, the more you drink, the greater the risk,” explains Dr. Yu. “The idea that low levels of alcohol protect against heart disease is often raised. It’s still debatable—and it’s doubtful that people drink solely for cardiac benefits.”
Ultimately, the decision is personal.
“Like other foods and beverages we consume and enjoy, such as soda or processed foods, it comes down to making an informed choice and taking responsibility for your own health,” adds Dr. Yu.
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Talk to your doctor.
If you’re wondering about alcohol and its risks, your doctor can be a valuable resource.
No two people are alike, and deciding whether – or how much – to drink depends on your overall health and other factors.
“Our diet is just one piece of the lifestyle choices that shape our physical well-being,” says Dr. Yu. “If you need guidance on making the best choices for yourself, your doctor can help you navigate those decisions.”
