Alcohol Linked to Cancer Risk

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As registered dietitians, we are committed to helping our patients make informed decisions regarding their health. The recent advisory from U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy states: Alcohol consumption, even at moderate levels, increases the risk of cancer.

Alcohol is a preventable or at least modifiable cause of cancer. Research confirms that alcohol intake is directly linked to at least seven types of cancer, including breast, liver, colorectal, esophageal, and head and neck cancers. The higher the alcohol intake the higher the risk. For certain cancers, like breast, mouth and throat cancers, evidence shows that the risk of developing cancer may start to increase with only one drink daily.

Many may find this information confusing because we have been told for years that a moderate amount of alcohol may have heart health benefits. Plus, it certainly is a social norm. A meta-analysis of multiple studies indicates the evidence is clear: The carcinogenic effects of alcohol outweigh any perceived benefits. Alcohol intake is metabolized into acetaldehyde, a toxic compound that damages DNA, setting the stage for cancer development.

The Surgeon General’s advisory is a wake-up call to assess the frequency and amount of alcohol we consume. If you’re interested in reducing your risk of cancer or have a strong family history of the disease, now seems like the perfect time to consider stepping on the brakes to decrease your alcohol intake.

Keep in mind one standard serving size of an alcoholic beverage is defined as:

Wine: 5 ounces

Hard Liquor: 1.5 ounces

There are many non-alcoholic wines, beers, mocktails and sparkling spritzers for enjoyable alternatives to alcohol.  Small, consistent changes can make a big difference in supporting your long-term health.

Daily Alcohol Intakes in American Adults

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Who drinks more, on average- men or women?

 

A 3-year study from NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) concluded in 2010 determined that 4.7% of daily calories consumed by adults in the United States (age 20+) came from alcoholic beverages. This includes beer, wine, liquor, and mixed drinks (cocktails).
The range was highest among men age 20-39, accounting for 6.5% and lowest among women aged 60+.  Overall, men averaged 6% and women 3% of total daily calories from alcohol. That puts the US adult population at approximately near 4.5%.
Across all age groups on average, men consumed more alcoholand with both sexes, consumption decreased with age.
Another interesting analysis is the average consumption rate according to income level. NHANES reported average calories from alcoholic beverages are greatest among those in the highest income category. On average, 117 calories per day are consumed from alcoholic beverages by those living at or above 350% of the poverty level, whereas the average of those living at 130% below poverty level is~ 90 calories. Women living at or above 350% of the poverty level consumed an average 75 calories from alcoholic beverages on a given day, while those living below 130% consumed just over 40 calories.
Interesting stuff!! sls