When it comes to alcohol, many people think in terms of moderation, enjoyment, or celebration. But fewer are aware of the serious health risks that come with drinking—including the increased risk of cancer. According to a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reducing your alcohol intake—or avoiding it altogether—can significantly lower your risk of developing certain cancers.
Yes, All Alcoholic Drinks Raise Cancer Risk
It doesn’t matter if it’s a glass of red wine, a bottle of beer, or a shot of liquor—all types of alcoholic beverages have been shown to increase cancer risk. While some headlines in the past may have touted the supposed heart benefits of moderate wine consumption, the evidence around cancer is clear: no form of alcohol is safe from this risk.
The Cancers Most Strongly Linked to Alcohol
Drinking alcohol raises your chances of developing several types of cancer, including:
Mouth
Throat (pharynx)
Voice box (larynx)
Esophagus
Colon and rectum
Liver
Breast (in women)
Additionally, drinking three or more alcoholic beverages per day may increase the risk of stomach and pancreatic cancers, and research also suggests a possible link to prostate cancer.
Why Does Alcohol Raise Cancer Risk?
There are several reasons why alcohol increases the risk of cancer:
DNA Damage: Alcohol can damage your DNA, which controls how cells function and grow. Damaged DNA can lead to uncontrolled cell growth—a key feature of cancer.
Hormone Changes: Alcohol increases estrogen levels, which is a known risk factor for breast cancer.
Increased Absorption of Carcinogens: Alcohol can make tissues more susceptible to harmful chemicals—especially in the mouth and throat. The risk multiplies if alcohol is combined with tobacco use.
What Do the Numbers Say?
The impact of alcohol-related cancers is significant. In 2021, there were over 522,000 new alcohol-associated cancers in the United States, with women accounting for more than 367,000 of these cases. Breast cancer is the most common alcohol-linked cancer among women, while colorectal cancer leads among men.
Each year, around 20,000 people in the U.S. die from alcohol-associated cancers—many of these deaths could have been prevented by reducing alcohol intake.
What Can You Do to Reduce Your Risk?
The good news is that you can take steps to protect your health:
Drink less—or Not At All: The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no more than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women. But choosing not to drink at all is the safest route.
Talk to Your Doctor: If you have concerns about your alcohol use—especially if you’re undergoing treatment or taking medication—check in with a healthcare professional.
Use Online Tools: Self-assessment tools can help you evaluate your drinking habits and make informed decisions.
How Can Doctors and Communities Help?
Doctors can play a vital role by screening for alcohol use and offering support or counseling to patients who drink excessively.
Communities can promote healthier environments by implementing evidence-based alcohol policies, such as limiting availability and advertising, especially in areas with high rates of alcohol-related harm.
Alcohol is deeply embedded in many aspects of social life—but its link to cancer is too serious to ignore. Whether you’re rethinking your own drinking habits or advocating for change in your community, know this: every step you take to reduce alcohol intake is a step toward better health.
Your future self will thank you.
