Study Shows Even Low Alcohol Intake May Raise Risk Of Oral Cancer In Indian Men – Expert Decodes

There used to be a time when myths about alcohol being safe ‘in moderation’ were believed by people. But with time, this notion has changed. Multiple studies and researches have proved that alcohol has the potential to harm our health in every way possible. Many studies specifically pointed out that even ‘occasional’ or ‘light’ drinking is not safe at all. One such recent study brought into focus that even low amounts of alcohol consumption is linked to oral cancer. Want to know more about the study? Then this article is just for you.

To get an expert view on this, we reached out to Dr Tushar Tayal, Associate Director, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital Gurgaon.

What Is The New Study On Oral Cancer All About?

As per a new study, even a low daily consumption of alcohol —- just 9 g or around one standard drink — is associated with a 50% heightened risk of mouth (buccal mucosa) cancer in India; with men being the most affected. It also mentions that the greatest risk is associated with locally brewed alcohol. This study has been published online in the journal BMJ Global Health.

In India, mouth cancer is the second most common malignancy, with an estimated 1,43,759 new cases and 79,979 deaths every year. Rates of this disease have risen steadily. Now, it stands at just under 15 for every 1,00,000 Indian men, mentions the researchers. Less than half (43%) of those affected by oral cancer survive 5 or more years, the study added.

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Expert View On The Study

“The study is important as well as relevant, especially in India, where oral cancer rates are already high. It reinforces growing global evidence that there is no completely ‘safe’ level of alcohol consumption when it comes to cancer risk,” explains Dr Tayal.

Shedding light on what makes men more prone to this, he adds, “Indian men may be more vulnerable due to genetic factors, nutritional deficiencies, and the common combination of alcohol with tobacco or betel nut use. Even small amounts of alcohol can irritate the oral lining over time and increase cancer risk.”

Also Read: Even ‘Social Drinking’ May Increase Dementia Risk, Says Study

Can Alcohol Cause Oral Cancer?

The study makes us question – is alcohol actually linked to oral cancer? Our expert answers. “Yes, alcohol is a risk factor for oral cancer. When alcohol breaks down in the body, it forms acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical that damages DNA. Alcohol also makes the mouth lining more permeable, allowing harmful substances to penetrate more easily. Regular alcohol use, especially when combined with smoking or chewing tobacco, significantly increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, tongue, and throat,” says Dr Tayal.

So, what other cancers can alcohol cause? Dr Tayal shares that alcohol consumption is linked to several types of cancer, including:

• Mouth and throat cancer.
• Esophageal cancer.
• Liver cancer.
• Breast cancer.
• Colorectal cancer.

“The risk increases with higher consumption of alcohol, but even moderate drinking has been shown to raise the risk for some cancers, especially breast and oral cancers,” warns the expert.

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Health Risks Linked To Alcohol

If you were of the notion that small amounts of alcohol is safe, then let us break your bubble. Dr Tayal explains that current scientific evidence suggests that even low levels of alcohol can be harmful, especially over long periods. “While the risk from small amounts is lower than heavy drinking, it is not zero. Regular low-dose alcohol intake can still increase the risk of cancer, liver disease, high blood pressure, and mental health issues,” he adds.

On this note, Dr Tayal lists the possible health risks from alcohol consumption. He says that alcohol affects almost every organ in the body; key health risks include:

• Increased risk of cancers.
• Liver diseases such as fatty liver and cirrhosis.
• Heart problems and high blood pressure.
• Weakened immunity and frequent infections.
• Mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
• Addiction and social harm.

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“Reducing or avoiding alcohol is one of the most effective ways to lower long-term health risks,” concludes Dr Tayal.

Also Read: Can Depression Draw You Towards Alcohol?

The Final Word

As per a new study, consumption of even low amounts of alcohol can put you at risk for oral cancer. Alcohol makes the mouth lining more permeable, allowing harmful substances to penetrate more easily. Regular alcohol use, especially when combined with smoking or chewing tobacco, significantly increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, tongue, and throat.