Many of us enjoy a drink now and then... a glass of wine with dinner, a beer with our buddies, or a fancy cocktail when out to eat with family or friends. This habit won't increase colon cancer risk, so long as your definition of "now and then" doesn't mean everyday or multiple times per day.
The latest study on this topic supports much of what has been shown about alcohol consumption in previous research on the topic: Moderate drinking won't significantly increase risk of colon cancer, but drinking larger amounts and drinking daily, will indeed take a toll on your colon.
When comparing the risk of colon cancer in people who drink heavily (daily or multiple times per day), with people who drink moderately (less than daily) or not at all, researchers found heavy drinking increased risk of colon cancer by 80%. Risk of other cancers, most notably esophageal and lung, was markedly increased in heavy drinkers as well.
Keeping Health in Mind: Drinking Responsibly
If you enjoy alcohol, but want to include it in your life without causing major health problems, keep the following in mind:
- Avoid Portion Distortion: One drink is 12 ounces of regular beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of hard (80 proof) liquor. If you have a large mixed drink, this may actually count as two alcohol servings.
- For Women: This study didn't address breast cancer specifically, but dozens of previous studies have shown that alcohol does increase breast cancer risk. The risk appears to increase in relation to the amount you drink...more drinks equals higher risk. Keep it to less than one drink per day and you'll be healthier for it. But do know that any alcohol can increase breast cancer risk.
- In Cancer Treatment: Never drink alcohol without first asking your doctor if this is okay. Alcohol can interact with chemotherapy medications and cause more severe side effects, so ask first to be on the safe side.
- On Medication: If you are on any medications, including those for cancer treatment, over-the-counter, or prescription medications, don't drink alcohol unless you know it is safe to do so. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for guidelines on which medications don't mix with alcohol.
- Don't Drink and Drive: Everyone knows this rule, but it bears repeating. It's just not worth the risk to drive after having even one drink. Designate a driver or call a cab.
- Don't Over-Consume. Besides a nasty hangover, you'll just increase your risks of colon cancer and many other diseases too.
Know Your Limit: Remember that smaller people and women are affected more by alcohol. Also, some people simply have a lower tolerance for genetic reasons. They don't process alcohol as effectively as people with a different genetic make-up.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy and alcohol don't mix. If you even think you are pregnant or have been trying to get pregnant, skip the booze.
