TL;DR
Alcohol increases the risk of cancer – it is responsible for approximately 4% of all cancer cases annually. The strongest link occurs with cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, liver, and breast. Ethanol affects cancer development through DNA damage (action of acetaldehyde), activation of oncogenes, and generation of free oxygen radicals. Alcohol disrupts metabolism and leads to deficiencies (including zinc, iron, vitamins A, E, and B group), which also promote cancer development. International institutions recognize alcohol as a strong carcinogen; complete abstinence is recommended for prevention. Cancer patients should avoid alcohol – it weakens the body, burdens the liver, and may interact with oncological medications. Alcohol consumption during or after chemotherapy is not recommended due to increased body sensitivity and risk of adverse effects.Alcohol and Cancer Risk
Alcohol increases the risk of cancer. Even moderate consumption of this substance raises the threat of certain types of cancer. Scientists researching this issue show that alcohol is responsible for 4% of all cancers, which means over 740 thousand cases annually. Ethanol primarily increases the risk of cancer of the upper digestive tract, liver, and breast.Alcohol and Upper Digestive Tract Cancers
The strongest link between alcohol and cancer occurs in the case of cancers of the upper digestive tract, particularly the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and esophagus. The incidence of cancer in this area is especially high among dependent individuals who consume alcohol intensively. It is estimated that as many as 50% of oral cavity, pharyngeal, and laryngeal cancer cases are associated with excessive drinking.Alcohol and Liver Cancer
Long-term, intensive drinking increases the risk of developing primary liver cancer. The carcinogenic factor in this case is liver cirrhosis caused by alcohol abuse. According to some researchers, as many as 36% of all cases of cancer of this organ were caused by excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages.Alcohol and Breast Cancer
It is estimated that chronic drinking is responsible for about 10% of all breast cancer cases. The risk of disease is greater the larger the amount of alcohol consumed and the longer the body is exposed to its effects. Ethanol also plays an indirect role in breast cancer development. This substance is responsible for increasing estrogen levels in women, which can stimulate carcinogenic processes in this area. Scientists confirm that there is a link between alcohol abuse and the risk of breast cancer. The link between alcohol consumption and cancer has also been confirmed in the case of colon and rectal cancer. Researchers also have evidence of ethanol's influence on the formation of cancerous changes in the gallbladder, stomach, prostate, and skin.Research on Alcohol's Impact on Cancer Development
The influence of alcohol on cancer development is demonstrated by various epidemiological and oncological studies. These are conducted by numerous research institutions worldwide, including the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the American Cancer Society, United European Gastroenterology, and the Department of Epidemiology and Primary Cancer Prevention of the National Institute of Oncology. Light is also shed on the issue by a publication that appeared in the prestigious medical journal The Lancet Oncology. Scientists unanimously call for raising public awareness about alcohol's impact on cancer development. In connection with this, they advocate for the implementation of effective public health protection strategies, including restricting access to alcohol, labeling ethanol-containing products with appropriate health warnings, and banning advertisements for alcoholic beverages.Is Alcohol a Carcinogen?
The International Agency for Research on Cancer, part of the World Health Organization, recognized alcohol as one of the strongest carcinogens in 1988. This was done based on available scientific literature and conducted research. In light of these findings, the European Code Against Cancer recommends complete abstinence, as even small amounts of consumed alcohol can act as a catalyst for cancerous changes. Ethanol promotes disease development by acting on oncogenes and causing the formation of free oxygen radicals.Alcohol's Effect on Oncogenes
Alcohol promotes cancer development at the genetic level. This substance acts on proto-oncogenes, genes that can trigger the process of cancerous transformation. Under the influence of alcohol, they transform into oncogenes, whose activity can lead to the transformation of healthy cells into cancer cells. The probability of carcinogenic mutations is increased by the action of acetaldehyde, a metabolite of ethanol. This substance impairs the cell's natural ability to repair damaged DNA and leaves it defenseless in the face of ongoing cancerous changes.Alcohol's Effect on Free Oxygen Radicals
Alcohol causes the formation of free oxygen radicals. These substances react with compounds such as proteins, lipids, sugars, and genetic material, modifying their structure and, as a result, their biological activity. The damage to the cell's genetic material caused by the action of free oxygen radicals promotes the occurrence of carcinogenic mutations within it. Alcohol consumption also raises the level of some cancer-promoting hormones. Chronic abuse of this substance can also lead to anomalies in the body's food metabolism. This can cause deficiencies of iron, zinc, as well as vitamins E, A, and some B vitamins, which significantly increases the risk of developing various types of cancer.Can a Cancer Patient Drink Alcohol?
Can you drink alcohol when you have cancer? This is a question asked by many people struggling with cancer. Oncologists advise against consuming alcohol, as it adversely affects the body during and after cancer treatment. This substance can cause excessive liver burden and deterioration of its detoxifying functions. It is also capable of interacting with some pharmaceutical agents used in cancer therapy. Alcohol consumption by a cancer patient can therefore cause decreased drug absorption, reduced concentration of its active substance, and increased risk of adverse effects. Ethanol is also a psychoactive substance with strong addictive potential. Its consumption is particularly risky during periods of disease-related states of increased stress and nervous tension. Overcome addiction and find the strength within yourself to fight cancer. Learn about the offerings of our facilities that perform alcohol implant procedures: +48 880 808 880 Free helpline 08:00 – 20:00Chemotherapy and Alcohol
When can you drink alcohol after chemotherapy? Opinions on this matter are divided. The safest thing for the patient's health is to refrain from drinking both before, during, and after chemotherapy. The sick person must be aware that cancer treatment significantly weakens the body, causing its ability to metabolize alcohol to drop drastically. Chemotherapy can also damage the intestinal lining and make it more susceptible to alcohol-induced irritation.:::cta Need help fighting addiction? Our specialists are ready to help you. Call or schedule an online appointment. Call: 880 808 880 | Book Appointment :::
