Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Cancer Discovered

Findings from a recent study suggests a dose-response relationship between alcohol consumption and an increased risk of developing cancer.

In meta-analysis published by Addiction, researchers used data from the World Cancer Research Fund, American Institute for Cancer Research, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, and the Global Burden of Disease Alcohol Group.

The researchers said their study shows a casual association between alcohol consumption and cancer occurring in 7 sites: oropharynx, larynx, esophagus, liver, colon, rectum, and breast. Researchers found that when alcohol consumption decreased, the cancer risk was also decreased.

They also discovered that evidence moderate drinking can protect against cardiovascular disease is not sufficient. In 2012, 5.8% of cancer deaths were due to alcohol consumption, according to the study.

Although researchers caution that heavy drinking can cause a large increase, they also state that low-to-moderate drinking increases the risk as well.