Impromptu
Alcohol is linked to cancer. But isn't everything?
Jan 14, 2025
Leana Wen, a physician and contributing columnist at The Washington Post, dives into the risks of alcohol, especially its connection to cancer. She discusses the surge in non-alcoholic drink sales during Dry January and the public health implications of moderate drinking. Wen explores societal shifts in drinking habits, emphasizing the importance of understanding the risks without succumbing to fear. The conversation balances the pleasures of social drinking with emerging health warnings, making for a thought-provoking dialogue on navigating our relationship with alcohol.
23:29
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights the Surgeon General's warning that even moderate alcohol consumption can increase cancer risks, prompting personal risk assessments.
- A cultural shift is evident as younger individuals opt for non-alcoholic alternatives during Dry January, while some demographics, like professional women, face rising drinking pressures.
Deep dives
Link Between Alcohol and Cancer
The U.S. Surgeon General's advisory highlights that moderate alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of various cancers, which many Americans are unaware of. Specifically, studies show that while the baseline risk of breast cancer for non-drinkers is about 11%, it increases to 13% with one drink per day and 15% with two drinks. This emphasizes the importance of personal risk assessment for individuals, particularly those with family histories of cancer. The discussion encourages listeners to examine their alcohol consumption in light of these findings and consider if reducing intake could be a prudent choice.
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