Is daily consumption of small amounts of alcohol dangerous? Scientists reveal the truth behind this common question.

Researchers have demonstrated how consuming just one serving of alcoholic drinks per day affects the body and whether there is a risk of developing cancer.

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Alcohol consumption is identified as one of the leading preventable causes of cancer worldwide. Statistics indicate that in the United States alone, alcohol use results in 20,000 deaths each year. But is consuming one alcoholic drink a day safe? Scientists have analyzed research and provided an answer, as reported by Live Mint.

A study published in the journal The Nutrition Source has already shown that the risk of developing alcohol-related cancer increases with greater alcohol consumption over time. For instance, women who consume two alcoholic drinks a day have a 15.3% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer compared to 11.3% for those who drink less than one drink per week. Researchers also found that higher alcohol intake significantly raises the risk of mouth and throat cancers.

Data from the World Health Organization also indicates that alcohol increases the risk of at least seven types of cancer, namely:

breast cancer (in women);
liver cancer;
oral cancer;
throat cancer;
esophageal cancer;
laryngeal cancer;
rectal cancer.

Researchers have also discovered that even moderate alcohol consumption, such as one drink per day, can significantly elevate the risk of certain cancers, including breast and oral cancers.

The role of alcohol in cancer development is linked to various biological mechanisms: first, alcohol is metabolized into acetaldehyde—a toxic compound that damages DNA—leading to tumor formation; second, alcohol generates reactive oxygen species that cause inflammation and DNA damage.

Studies have also shown that alcohol can affect hormone levels, including estrogen, which contributes to the risk of breast cancer. Scientists believe that alcohol may act as a solvent, enhancing the effects of carcinogens, such as those found in tobacco smoke.

Yet, despite the documented risks, public awareness remains alarmingly low worldwide. For example, fewer than half of Americans recognize alcohol as a risk factor for cancer. As a result, health experts recommend that people around the world reduce their alcohol consumption.

Researchers also emphasize that early intervention, including educating the public and screening for alcohol use in clinical settings, is crucial for reducing cancer risks.

Important! This article is based on the latest scientific and medical research and is consistent with them. The text is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice. For diagnosis, please consult a physician.