Live Well: Alcohol—One of the top three risk factors for cancer

There are many reasons to reduce alcohol intake, and one important reason is the link between alcohol and cancer. The Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) recommends consuming 2 “standard drinks” or less per week. Increasing that to just 3-6 “standard drinks” per week increases your risk of developing several types of cancer, including breast cancer.

One standard drink is about:

• 142 mL (5 oz) of wine, 12% alcohol content
• 43 mL (1.5 oz) of spirits, 40% alcohol content
• 341 mL (12 oz) of beer or cider, 5% alcohol content

Note many restaurants serve amounts that can equal 2 “standard drinks” in one glass—for example, a 6 or 9 oz glass of wine, or a 20 oz pint of 8% alcohol content beer.

Studies have shown that drinking alcohol increased the risk of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer by 35% and the risk of estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer by 28%. For people using hormone therapy, research shows drinking alcohol can further increase your breast cancer risk. 

Wondering if you should reduce your alcohol intake? Try this quiz from ALAViDA to check your risk levels, and find out more about how to live healthier. Eligible AOMBT plan members will receive a $5 gift card upon quiz completion.