The Link Between Alcohol And Cancer

Among the many health problems that can arise from alcohol abuse, the increased chance of developing various types of cancer is arguably the worst. Cancer of any type can completely ransack your life, and alcohol use is one of the biggest risk factors. Learn more about the link between alcohol and cancer below.

How Does Alcohol Cause Cancer?

While it’s been known for many years that alcohol abuse vastly increases your chances of developing various cancers, the reasons were a mystery. That is until last year, when a study of rats, alcohol, and their DNA answered key questions for the first time.

As shown in the study, alcohol alters the acetaldehyde in cells, damaging DNA and causing cancer to develop. Acetaldehyde plays a critical role in producing small amounts of alcohol. The abuse of alcohol destroys these receptors, and ultimately, the DNA in our cells themselves. Without proper instructions to follow in the form of DNA, these cells grow a variety of life-threatening cancers instead.

What Types of Cancer Are Caused By Alcohol?

Cancers can vary greatly in terms of survivability, quality of life, and the amount of time it takes to become life-threatening. One thing that all cancers have in common is that finding them early can vastly improve your chances of survival. A second thing that almost all cancers have in common is that alcohol boosts the risk of developing them. All of the following cancers can be brought about by long term alcohol abuse:

  • Liver
  • Stomach
  • Colorectal
  • Breast
  • Esophageal
  • Larynx
  • Pharynx
  • Mouth

How Can I Prevent Alcohol From Leading to Cancer?

Millions of people use alcohol responsibly and don’t put themselves at risk of deadly cancers on a regular basis. These tips will help prevent such cancers from developing due to your alcohol use:

  • Self-monitor yourself and stop if you’re consuming too much alcohol
  • Ask your friends to help you stay within a reasonable amount of alcohol consumption
  • Have other beverages and activities you enjoy aside from drinking alcohol
  • Regularly attend medical check-ups to ensure no problems are developing
  • Be honest with your doctor regarding your alcohol usage and heed their advice

Avoiding An Escalated Risk of Cancer

Many problems can come from overuse and addiction to alcohol. Myrtle Beach Recovery provides a peaceful environment for recovering alcoholics and addicts to work through the 12 steps. The path to sobriety can get easier, and our amenities can help.

Contact us today to learn more.

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