Cancer Research UK has warned of the dangers of alcohol, stressing that all types of alcoholic beverages may increase the risk of several types of cancer, even when consumed in small amounts.
The foundation explained in a post on its Instagram account that the harm is not related to a specific type of alcoholic beverage, but to alcohol itself, noting that reducing its consumption can help lower the risk of developing cancer.
The foundation said: "Alcohol causes seven types of cancer. All types of alcoholic beverages increase the risk of cancer, because alcohol itself causes the damage, even in small amounts."
She noted that alcohol is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer, bowel cancer, oral cancer, liver cancer, and some types of throat cancer.
The organization offered a range of tips to help people reduce their alcohol consumption, including monitoring drinking habits, designating alcohol-free days, replacing alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic alternatives, avoiding buying large quantities or storing them at home, as well as setting realistic goals and sticking to them.
She emphasized that making simple changes to alcohol consumption habits can contribute to improved health and reduce the risk of cancer, adding that reducing alcohol consumption has multiple health benefits.
For its part, the British National Health Service (NHS) explained that regular consumption of more than 14 alcoholic units (140 ml of pure alcohol) per week for a period of 10 to 20 years may increase the risk of serious illnesses, including oral, throat and breast cancer, stroke, heart and liver disease, as well as damage to the brain and nervous system.
She also pointed out that there is a link between excessive alcohol consumption and deteriorating mental health, explaining that research has found a relationship between alcohol abuse and self-harm, including suicide.
