Social drinking is a pleasant pastime for many people and while done in moderation it may not be entirely harmful. However, clinical studies do show that drinking carries a higher risk of cancer, particularly in breast, colon, liver and cancers of the mouth and throat. This is why the American Cancer Society recommends limiting alcoholic beverages to no more than 1 drink per day for women and 2 drinks per day for men.
Scientists are still looking at how or why alcohol increases a person’s cancer risk. But, it is important to know that limiting alcohol intake is especially important for women who have other risk factors for breast cancer or breast cancer in their close relatives or families.
Heavy alcohol use has also been associated with colon cancer incidence. And, alcohol abuse is a leading cause of cirrhosis of the liver and increased cancer risk. In some recent studies published by the American Cancer Society, a significant number of cancers of the liver cases were associated with heavy alcohol use.
Studies have also shown that the risk of cancer, especially in breast, colon, liver and cancers of the mouth and throat, in people who are heavy drinkers and smokers may be as much as 100 times more than the risk for those who do not smoke or drink.
Moderation in drinking, as with all things, is always best. Alcohol abuse or heavy drinking may lead to other serious health problems. While limiting your drinking of alcoholic beverages does not mean that you cannot still have fun or attend festive parties or events, consider a non-alcoholic cocktail or beverage as a healthy substitute.
Click here for non-alcoholic cocktail recipes.
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