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If you have landed on this webpage, it is likely that you are worried about your drinking and are concerned that drinking alcohol might raise your risk of cancer. Cancer and alcohol consumption have been closely linked. Alcohol has been linked to multiple forms of cancer, significantly increasing the risk of developing malignancies. This article discusses seven specific forms of cancer associated with drinking alcohol, the biological mechanisms at play, and how individuals can reduce their cancer risk and alcohol intake. 

Reducing your intake of alcohol is key to the effective prevention of cancers caused by alcohol misuse, with research showing a clear link between its consumption and certain types of cancers in the body. ^1,2

What You Will Learn on this Page

• Alcohol is known to cause seven forms of cancer
• Binge drinking alongside smoking increases the risk further
• Cutting down or stopping drinking helps to mitigate risks
• If you have cancer, there are many benefits to cutting out alcohol

The link between alcohol consumption and cancer is complex but well-documented. Globally, alcoholic drinks are recognised as a significant risk factor for malignancy (when abnormal cells grow rapidly out of control and spread throughout the body). ^1,3

Even drinking a moderate or less extreme amount of alcohol can lead to a higher chance of developing several types of cancer, with recent studies suggesting that no amount of alcohol is completely safe when it comes to the risk of cancer. ^4,5

Moderate consumption – typically defined as up to one drink per day for women and two for men – contributes to a higher risk of certain cancers. The risk stems from alcohol’s metabolic by-product, known as acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical that can damage your DNA and the proteins in your body. ^2,3

Why Does Alcohol Increase the Risk of Cancer?

Alcohol increases the risk of several cancers developing in the body through the production of acetaldehyde during the breakdown of ethanol. Acetaldehyde, a carcinogen (which means it has the potential to cause cancer), damages DNA and impairs any repair that the body might need. This can lead to the worsening of the disease and the potential spread of cancer over time. ^2,3

This damage affects the division of cells within your body, particularly in areas that come into direct contact with alcohol, such as the mouth, throat, and bowel, as well as the liver. These cancers, including bowel cancer and alcohol, are strongly linked.

Research also shows that alcohol raises the levels of some hormones, such as oestrogen and insulin, in our bodies. Increased levels of these hormones make cells in your body divide more frequently and at a much faster rate, which can greatly increase the chance of developing cancer, as well as contribute to its spread throughout your body. ^2,5

Which Cancers are Linked to Alcohol Consumption?

These are the seven forms of cancer strongly linked to alcohol consumption. It’s important to note that while these cancers have strong links to consuming alcohol, the risk can vary based on individual factors, such as genetics, overall health, and other lifestyle choices. Exact percentage increases vary across studies, and we have focused here on percentages of risks caused by heavy alcohol consumption:

Colon Cancer and Alcoholism

Long-term alcohol misuse has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. Heavy drinking can damage the lining of the colon, promote inflammation, and alter gut bacteria, all of which may contribute to the development of cancerous cells. People with alcoholism are therefore at higher risk, especially if alcohol use is combined with other factors such as smoking or a poor diet.

Alcohol and Bowel Cancer

Research shows a clear association between alcohol consumption and bowel cancer risk. Even moderate drinking can increase the likelihood of developing bowel cancer, with higher levels of intake leading to greater risk. For people with a family history of bowel cancer, cutting back or quitting alcohol can be an important preventive step.

Colorectal Cancer and Alcohol

Colorectal cancer, which affects both the colon and rectum, is one of the most common cancers linked to alcohol use. Studies suggest that the risk rises in line with the amount of alcohol consumed, regardless of whether it comes from wine, beer, or spirits. Reducing alcohol intake is a practical way to lower the chance of developing colorectal cancer over time.

Reducing Your Risk

Consuming alcohol in any amount increases the risk of developing cancer, as carcinogenic compounds such as acetaldehyde, which are produced when alcohol is metabolised in the body, can damage DNA and stop the body from repairing itself. ^2,3

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Cut Down on Alcohol Consumption: Even small reductions can have a positive impact. ^3,4,5
2. Avoid Binge Drinking: This often makes the harmful effects of alcohol even worse, increasing the likelihood of acute damage on a cellular level as well as inflammation around the body. ^1,3
3. Don’t Smoke: When paired with smoking, the carcinogenic or cancer-inducing potential of alcohol is greatly increased. ^1,2
4. Be Aware of Persistent Risk: the elevated risk of getting cancer from alcohol consumption can persist for years – even after stopping drinking. However, take comfort in knowing that whilst the risk might not disappear immediately, it does significantly decrease over time. ^3,4
5. Seek Help if Needed: Many resources are available to anyone who is looking for support either for themselves or for a loved one. These include counselling, support groups, and medical interventions. ⁵

A gradual or steady reduction in the intake of alcohol can lead to many health benefits, such as improved immune function, better hormonal regulation, and less oxidative stress (something that causes damage to your organs and tissues). Any amount of reduction in intake can have positive effects on your overall health and cancer risk. ^3,4,5

Should I Quit Alcohol If I Have Cancer?

If you have been diagnosed with cancer, it is important to understand that while alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for several types of cancer, it may not be the sole cause of your specific diagnosis. Cancer is typically the result of a combination of factors, including a genetic predisposition, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and sometimes even unexplained causes. ^3,4

If you have cancer, there are significant benefits to reducing or eliminating alcohol:

If you’re struggling to reduce your alcohol intake, you can discuss this with our healthcare team. 

Are You Struggling to Quit Alcohol?

Overcoming addiction is challenging but achievable. With the right support, evidence-based therapy, both online and in-person, as well as a commitment to ongoing recovery, you can build a fulfilling life free from alcohol misuse and the associated health risks.

Here at CATCH Recovery, we recognise that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to alcoholism treatment. Each person’s journey to recovery is unique and requires a personalised approach, taking into account any mental health issues or physical health issues such as cancer. Call us today for information on our treatment programmes for alcohol use disorder, which can be accessed either as an outpatient or at a residential rehab centre.