By Lana Uhrig RN, MBA, PhD in Public Health in Environmental Science, Executive Director, Naples Cancer Advisors
Alcohol consumption is a widely acknowledged risk factor for the development of various cancers and presents unique considerations for cancer survivors. Here we will explore the relationship between alcohol use and cancer development, as well as the recommendations for alcohol consumption among cancer survivors.
The Link Between Alcohol and Cancer Development:
Alcohol consumption has been identified as a significant risk factor for several types of cancer, including but not limited to, head and neck, esophageal, liver, breast, and colorectal cancers. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a part of the World Health Organization (WHO), classifies alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen, indicating that there is sufficient evidence to establish a causal relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer (1).
The carcinogenic effects of alcohol are attributed to various mechanisms. Ethanol, the primary component of alcoholic beverages, is metabolized into acetaldehyde, a toxic compound that can damage DNA and prevent its repair. This DNA damage can lead to mutations that increase the risk of cancer development (2). Additionally, alcohol can enhance the carcinogenic effects of other substances, such as tobacco, and increase estrogen levels, which is associated with an elevated risk of breast cancer (3).
Recommendations for Alcohol Consumption Among Cancer Survivors:
For cancer survivors, the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer recurrence or the development of new primary cancers is complex. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that cancer survivors limit their alcohol intake, with an emphasis on abstaining from alcohol as the best choice for those who have been diagnosed with cancers that are known to be influenced by alcohol (4).
The ACS guidelines suggest that if cancer survivors choose to consume alcohol, they should do so in moderation, defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men (4). However, these recommendations are general and may need to be tailored based on the individual’s cancer type, treatment history, and overall health status.
For example, breast cancer survivors, particularly those with hormone receptor-positive tumors, may be advised to avoid alcohol entirely due to its potential to increase estrogen levels. Similarly, survivors of head and neck or esophageal cancers, which are strongly linked to alcohol consumption, may be counseled to abstain from alcohol to reduce the risk of recurrence (5).
Alcohol consumption is a modifiable risk factor for cancer development and poses specific considerations for cancer survivors. While moderate alcohol intake may be acceptable for some survivors, abstinence is the safest option for those with a history of alcohol-related cancers. It is essential for cancer survivors to discuss their alcohol consumption with their healthcare providers to receive personalized recommendations based on their individual risk factors and health status.
Naples Cancer Advisors (NCA) stands as a pillar of support for Southwest Florida residents facing a cancer diagnosis. Guided by compassion, expertise, and empowerment, NCA provide consultative oncology services including second opinions, care coordination, referrals, clinical trial navigation, financial navigation, and precision oncology services such as genetic testing and counseling – all at no charge to the patient, thanks to generous donors.
Southwest Florida residents with a current or past cancer diagnosis are eligible for a no-cost consultation at Naples Cancer Advisors. The world-class team of experts works directly with your treating physician to help improve your plan of care. For more information, call 239.846.2273 (CARE) or visit.
Lana Uhrig, RN, MBA, PhD
Lana joins Naples Cancer Advisors as an accomplished healthcare executive with extensive experience in operations, strategic planning, leadership development & mentoring, board development and community engagement. She received her Ph.D. in Public Health from The Ohio State University, an MBA from Franklin University, and a bachelor’s in nursing from Ohio University. Recently arriving in South Florida, Lana has been instrumental in opening Naples Cancer Advisors (NCA), a second location for the Cincinnati Cancer Foundation-Cincinnati Cancer Advisors where she serves as the Clinical & Business Development Officer. NCA is a philanthropic organization providing free second opinions and genetic counseling services to those newly diagnosed with cancer in the SW Florida Community. Previously, Lana served as the Vice President & Chief Nursing Officer for Emory Healthcare-Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University and the Executive Administrative Director of the University of Cincinnati Cancer Institute. In past roles, she has been recognized as a subject matter expert in the development, implementation, and growth of cancer programs and non-profit administration.
239-846-2273 (CARE)
3201 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 112, Naples, FL 34103
naplescanceradvisors.org
References:
1. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). (2012). IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, Volume 100E: Personal Habits and Indoor Combustions. Lyon, France: IARC.
2. Seitz, H. K., & Stickel, F. (2007). Molecular mechanisms of alcohol-mediated carcinogenesis. Nature Reviews Cancer, 7(8), 599-612.
3. Key, J., Hodgson, S., Omar, R. Z., Jensen, T. K., Thompson, S. G., Boobis, A. R., … & Elliott, P. (2006). Meta-analysis of studies of alcohol and breast cancer with consideration of the methodologi-cal issues. Cancer Causes & Control, 17(6), 759-770.
4. American Cancer Society. (2020). Nutrition and Physical Activity Guidelines for Cancer Survivors. Retrieved from
https://www.cancer.org/healthy/eat-healthy-get-active/acs-guidelines-nutrition-physical-activity-cancer-prevention/guidelines.html
5. Allen, N. E., Beral, V., Casabonne, D., Kan, S. W., Reeves, G. K., Brown, A., & Green, J. (2009). Moderate alcohol intake and cancer incidence in women. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 101(5), 296-305.