Drinking and Cancer: Health Issues Beyond Liver Damage

By Shubhi Kumar
03 Mar 2025, 17:30 IST

Do you know how alcohol is linked with cancer? Excessive intake of alcohol leads to an increased risk of various cancers. Today, we bring to you several ways alcohol consumption increases the chances of acquiring various cancers. Tap to read!

Relation between Alcohol and Cancers

Alcohol consumption leads to cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, and esophagus. This causes and raises the overall risk of cancers.

Alcohol and Liver Cancer

Heavy drinking can cause liver cirrhosis (permanent liver damage), which increases the chances of contracting liver cancer after years have passed.

Alcohol and Hepatitis C

Alcohol increases the risk of hepatitis C infection due to higher alcohol intake. This increases the chances of liver cancer many times.

Colon and Rectum Cancer

In both the bodies of men and women, habitual drinking has a straightforward association with colorectal cancer (a cancer that develops in the colon or rectum).

Breast Cancer in Women

Even moderate drinking may predispose women to an increased risk of breast cancer. It can damage cells, change hormone levels, and lead to weight gain.

Information credits

As per the research, the National Institute of Health (NIH), alcohol consumption leads to cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, and esophagus. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor/healthcare professional for personalised suggestions.