Does Alcohol Cause Cancer?

Many people may not associate alcohol consumption with a higher cancer risk. However, recent medical guidelines stress that even moderate alcohol consumption can notably affect health. In January 2025, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued an advisory warning that alcohol is a preventable cause of cancer, responsible for around 100,000 cases annually in the United States. He called for updated health warnings to increase awareness of this significant health issue.

This advisory follows a tradition of public health campaigns that have reshaped public perception of health risks, such as the 1964 report on smoking. Recent evidence challenges the idea that moderate red wine is beneficial. Discover how drinking increases cancer risk and how Midwest Recovery Centers can support you or a loved one in pursuing healthier choices.

The Connection Between Alcohol and Cancer

Studies have shown that alcohol is a carcinogen and ranks as the third-leading preventable cause of cancer in the U.S., following tobacco and obesity, according to the Surgeon General’s advisory. Here’s how alcohol contributes to cancer:

  • Alcohol metabolism produces toxic acetaldehyde, which damages DNA, which is essential for cell functioning and reproduction.
  • Acetaldehyde promotes cellular injury with failure of cell repair and is implicated in alcohol-etiological tumors, particularly cancers around the mouth, esophagus, and throat.
  • Consuming alcohol elevates free radical amounts, enhancing oxidative stress in harmful cell carcinogenesis and tissue injuries.
  • Alcohol can act on the body’s hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, which can increase the risk for specific cancers, including breast cancer and prostate cancer.

This interrelationship can heighten the risk for numerous types of cancers because of how cancers affect hormones and cells. Midwest Recovery Centers understands the importance of staying informed on this topic and ensuring that our treatment center stays up to date for specific therapies that focus on behavior modification, which addresses alcohol misuse and its health effects.

“Our program was founded on establishing evidence-based treatment for those looking to find a path to recovery. We started as a long-term treatment program with gender-specific housing, as a step down approach to help individuals find lasting sobriety. We understand firsthand what it’s like to get sober in today’s society. There are many social norms that can act as barriers and roadblocks to recovery. This is why we employ a comprehensive approach to treating the disease of addiction. There are many co-morbidities that may make it difficult to cut ties with alcohol use, which is why we have Joint Commission accredited therapies, guided by expert medical and clinical teams that help you or your loved one on their journey. This does not need to be a process you take by yourself. Our compassionate and caring staff are standing by, waiting to assist you. Call us today!”

Taylor Brown, CRADC

Types of Cancer Linked to Alcohol

Research has revealed various cancers closely linked to alcohol consumption. Key findings include:

  • Breast Cancer: Evidence shows even one drink a day increases breast cancer risk by affecting estrogen levels essential for the development of cancer.
  • Colorectal Cancer: Alcohol increases the risk of colorectal cancer, especially among men, for which moderation should be observed.
  • Liver Cancer: This can also be a long-term effect of heavy drinking because it has been known to bring about chronic inflammation and scarring of liver tissue with high intake.
  • Tobacco and alcohol together increase the risk of cancers in the mouth, throat, and esophagus, leading to further tissue damage.

Dr. Béatrice Lauby-Secretan, an expert from the International Agency for Cancer Research, explains that alcohol acts as a solvent, increasing the absorption of carcinogens in cigarette smoke. This highlights the grave dangers of using alcohol and tobacco together.

For individuals seeking to avoid these serious health risks, Midwest Recovery Centers offers compassionate support and resources to help them make healthier choices.

Steps to Reduce or Stop Drinking Alcohol

The Surgeon General’s report emphasizes a crucial point: there is no completely safe level of alcohol consumption. Even light drinking can increase cancer risk. If you or someone you know wants to reduce alcohol intake, several practical strategies can help achieve that goal:

  • Recognizing the health risks of alcohol and seeking support are crucial first steps.
  • Professional assistance offers personalized guidance, and therapy addresses the psychological and emotional factors contributing to drinking behaviors.

Midwest Recovery Centers offers a range of therapy options to empower individuals with tools for healthier choices. By seeking the right support, they can achieve a healthier future free from alcohol’s impacts.

Evidence-Based vs. Holistic Therapies for Alcohol Use

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach that helps individuals change negative thoughts related to alcohol use, highlighting the link between mindset and drinking behavior habits.
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI) boosts the drive to change by fostering dialogue and self-reflection. It helps individuals discover their motivation for a better life.
  • Holistic therapies like mindfulness and meditation enhance emotional balance and reduce stress, benefiting recovery alongside traditional treatments. These practices provide clarity and peace of mind, aiding sobriety.

Midwest Recovery Centers offers group therapy for additional support, fostering community and accountability among participants. Sharing experiences enhances motivation and provides a safe space for individuals to learn during their recovery journeys.

Therapy’s Role in Supporting Behavioral Change

At Midwest Recovery Centers, therapy helps individuals achieve sobriety by managing triggers that increase the urge to drink. This approach includes teaching clients coping strategies for stress and anxiety. By discovering healthier methods to confront these difficulties, individuals can considerably lessen their dependence on alcohol as a quick fix or answer.

Therapy focuses on personal coping strategies and emphasizes repairing strained relationships. Restoring these connections often involves fostering improved communication skills and rebuilding trust among friends, family, and loved ones. This holistic approach not only aids in the individual’s recovery but also strengthens their support network.

A major benefit of therapy at Midwest Recovery Centers is the restoration of self-confidence. As individuals recover, they uncover their strengths and capabilities. This renewed self-empowerment is crucial for long-term sobriety, offering the resilience and motivation to face future challenges.

The Impact of Updated Health Guidelines

The Surgeon General’s advisory calls for updated alcohol warning labels to reflect the risks of cancer. Since the existing labels, introduced in 1988, primarily warn against impaired driving and alcohol use during pregnancy, they do not reflect the broader health risks. Experts, including Dr. Shuji Ogino from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, emphasize that increased public awareness can lead to healthier choices.

Organizations like the American Medical Association strongly support this initiative. They highlight that clear health warnings can save lives by informing the public about alcohol’s dangers.

Health professionals, such as Dr. David Greenberg, who is an oncologist, have been steadfast advocates for increasing public education regarding the risks that come with drinking alcohol. Dr. Greenberg notes that many people, including his patients and acquaintances, are largely unaware of the harmful effects of alcohol on their health.

Campaigns such as ‘Dry January’ are crucial in increasing awareness regarding alcohol consumption. These initiatives motivate individuals to evaluate their drinking behaviors and embrace healthier alternative lifestyles.

Midwest Recovery Centers supports initiatives that promote awareness and offers programs designed to help individuals take meaningful steps toward sobriety.

Professional Support at Midwest Recovery Centers

Midwest Recovery Centers offers personalized care plans tailored to individual needs. These plans integrate evidence-based and holistic therapies to support a thorough recovery process. Services include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to change unhelpful thought patterns, Motivational Interviewing to boost personal motivation, and mindfulness practices to enhance relaxation and self-awareness.

This method caters to diverse health requirements, encompassing emotional, physical, and psychological wellness. By prioritizing the individual, Midwest Recovery Centers considers every facet of health during recovery.

Our facilities emphasize compassionate, nonjudgmental support, fostering a space where individuals and their families feel truly heard and supported during recovery. This understanding atmosphere promotes open dialogue and trust, which is essential for effective healing.

Taking Control of Your Health

The evidence is clear: alcohol is a leading cause of preventable cancer. However, with the right support, it is possible to reduce or stop drinking alcohol and improve overall well-being. If you or someone you care about is facing challenges related to alcohol, Midwest Recovery Centers offers comprehensive support to help you on the path to recovery.

We encourage you to share this article to raise awareness about the health risks of alcohol and inspire meaningful conversations. Contact Midwest Recovery Centers today to learn more about how our types of therapy can make a difference.

FAQs

Does alcohol cause cancer?

Yes, scientific studies confirm that alcohol consumption raises the risk of developing several types of cancer.

What types of therapy are best for addressing alcohol use?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and holistic therapies such as mindfulness are effective options.

Is there a safe level of alcohol consumption?

No, the Surgeon General’s advisory emphasizes that there is no safe amount of alcohol for avoiding cancer risk.

How does drinking cause cancer?

Alcohol is metabolized into acetaldehyde, which damages DNA, raises hormone levels, and depletes protective nutrients, all of which contribute to cancer.

How can I stop drinking alcohol?

Professional therapy, as offered by Midwest Recovery Centers, provides comprehensive care to help individuals reduce or stop drinking alcohol safely and effectively.

By Midwest Recovery Centers – Supporting your path to wellness in Kansas City, MO.

 

Verify Your Insurance Coverage
close slider
  • General Information


  • Address

    Address on file with your insurance carrier.

  • Insurance Information

  • Accepted file types: jpg, gif, png, pdf, Max. file size: 64 MB.
  • Max. file size: 50 MB.

  • Additional Information

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This