Alcohol triggers dangerous processes in the body — scientists

Drinking alcohol increases the risk of developing at least seven types of cancer, including breast, liver, and esophageal cancer. About 4% of cancer cases worldwide are linked to alcohol—more than 740,000 cases. Ethanol damages DNA through acetaldehyde and raises estrogen levels. Combining alcohol with smoking amplifies the risk. There is no safe type of alcohol.

Alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of at least seven types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, liver, oral, pharyngeal, laryngeal, and esophageal cancer. According to the data cited, about 4% of cancer cases worldwide are associated with drinking, corresponding to more than 740,000 diagnosed cases. The degree of risk depends on the amount and regularity of consumption. The main mechanism involves ethanol being converted into acetaldehyde—a toxic compound that can damage cellular DNA, potentially disrupting cell repair and division processes, increasing the likelihood of mutations and tumor development. Alcohol also raises estrogen levels, which is considered a mechanism increasing the risk of certain breast cancers. Particularly dangerous is the combination of alcohol and smoking, as alcohol facilitates the penetration of carcinogenic substances from tobacco smoke into tissues. Long-term alcohol abuse damages the liver, raising the risk of cancer. The type of drink does not eliminate the carcinogenic risk, as wine, beer, and spirits all contain ethanol.