Post Reports
Will I get cancer from drinking alcohol?
Jan 7, 2025
Join Rachel Siegel and Fenit Nirappil, a public health reporter at The Washington Post, as they dive into the alarming links between alcohol and cancer. They discuss the Surgeon General's call for warning labels on alcohol products and the shocking statistics revealing alcohol as a leading preventable cancer cause. Nirappil breaks down the science behind these risks and examines if reducing alcohol intake could actually lessen cancer risks. The conversation also highlights the implications of the World Health Organization's report on alcohol consumption.
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Quick takeaways
- The U.S. Surgeon General's advisory reveals that alcohol is the third leading preventable cause of cancer, affecting thousands annually.
- Proposed warning labels on alcohol could raise public awareness about cancer risks, prompting discussions on moderation and potential policy changes.
Deep dives
The Risks of Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer, including breast, throat, and liver cancer. Research has established that drinking alcohol can cause DNA damage during its metabolism, which in turn increases the likelihood of developing cancerous tumors. Additionally, alcohol can affect hormonal levels, such as estrogen, which is associated with breast cancer. Furthermore, alcohol consumption can facilitate the absorption of other carcinogens, as individuals are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, like smoking, when under the influence.
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