Alcohol Use and Cancer Risk
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the consumption of alcohol is associated with increased risk of developing more than ten different types of cancers.
When we drink alcohol, our bodies break it down into a substance called acetaldehyde. This substance can cause damage to our DNA, which is like the instruction manual for our cells. When DNA gets damaged, cells can start growing out of control, potentially leading to cancer.
The correlation between alcohol and cancer underscores the importance of moderating alcohol intake. The CDC highlights several types of cancer where alcohol consumption significantly elevates risk, including cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box, esophagus, colon, rectum, liver, and breast (in women). Studies indicate that consuming three or more alcoholic drinks per day heightens the risk of stomach and pancreatic cancers. Even prostate cancer has shown associations with alcohol consumption.
All forms of alcoholic beverages—whether wine, beer, or liquor—contribute to this heightened risk. The quantity consumed directly correlates with the risk level, emphasizing the importance of moderation in alcohol consumption.
The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans advocate for responsible alcohol consumption. Adults of legal drinking age are advised to either abstain from alcohol or limit intake to two drinks or less per day for men and one drink or less per day for women. The guidelines strongly advise against alcohol consumption for individuals under the legal drinking age, pregnant women, those with health conditions made worse by alcohol, individuals engaging in activities such as driving, and those recovering from alcohol use disorders.
November is Stomach and Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
Alcohol use can increase the risk of stomach (gastric) cancer and pancreatic cancer. Early detection is key, yet both cancers are often difficult to diagnose in early stages because symptoms may be mild or easily mistaken for other conditions. Knowing the warning signs can help you act sooner.
Possible symptoms of stomach cancer may include:
Ongoing stomach pain or discomfort
Heartburn or indigestion that doesn’t go away
Feeling full after eating only a small amount
Nausea or vomiting
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or weakness
Blood in vomit or stool (which may appear dark or tar-like)
Possible symptoms of pancreatic cancer may include:
Belly or back pain that doesn’t improve
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Loss of appetite or unplanned weight loss
Changes in stool, such as greasy, floating, or pale stools
Nausea or vomiting
New diagnosis of diabetes or sudden difficulty managing diabetes
These symptoms can be caused by many other health issues, but if you notice any of them—especially if they persist—it's important to contact your health care provider. Early conversation and screening can make a difference.
Alcoholscreening.org is a valuable tool to help you assess your drinking habits and understand any potential risks to your health. By answering a few questions on the platform, you can get personalized insights into safe drinking guidelines and how your current habits might impact your well-being.
If you find yourself drinking more than usual or are concerned about your alcohol consumption, visit alcoholscreening.org for free, anonymous, and confidential self-assessment tools and resources.
For additional resources related to alcohol use risks and preventing underage alcohol use, visit https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/healthy-living/substance-use-and-behavioral-health/substance-use/alcohol.
Prevention efforts supported by Maine CDC.