Deep Link Between Alcohol and Cancer Described in New Report

The American Association for Cancer Research’s 2024 report reveals a significant link between alcohol consumption and cancer risk, with 5.4% of U.S. cancer cases in 2019attributed to alcohol — and this is likely an underestimate
Six types of cancer are directly linked to excessive alcohol consumption: liver, breast, colorectal, esophageal, stomach, and head and neck cancers
Even light drinking increases cancer risk. A U.K. Biobank study found that low levels of alcohol consumption raise cancer mortality risk, especially in vulnerable populations
Alcohol’s carcinogenic effects begin in the mouth, where bacteria convert it to acetaldehyde. It also disrupts hormones, gut health, mitochondrial function and sleep patterns, further increasing cancer risk
Abstaining from alcohol is the best prevention. For those who drink, taking N-acetylcysteine (NAC) supplements before consuming alcohol may help reduce its harmful effects