UNDERSTANDING THE INCREASED CANCER RISK FROM ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION & COAs
When it comes to cancer prevention, one of the most significant steps we can take is to address modifiable risk factors like alcohol consumption. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning it is a confirmed cause of cancer in humans. This places alcohol in the same category as smoking and asbestos, underscoring the serious health risks associated with its consumption.
A French Study with Key Findings
A recent study published in The Lancet Public Health by Michaël Schwarzinger and colleagues analyzed data from the French National Hospital Discharge database. The study included over 865,000 individuals with alcohol dependence and revealed a critical insight: those who received alcohol rehabilitation treatment or had a history of abstinence had lower risks of alcohol-associated cancers compared to those who did not.
This finding is particularly significant in France, a country known for its high level of alcohol consumption. In 2022, the average alcohol consumption per inhabitant aged 15 years and older was 165 grams of pure alcohol per week. To put this in perspective, this is much higher than the recommended upper limit of 100 grams of pure alcohol per week advised by health authorities.
Alcohol and Cancer: A Preventable Risk
Alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for several types of cancer, including liver, breast, colorectal, and cancers of the mouth, throat, and esophagus. The study’s results highlight the importance of alcohol rehabilitation programs and the benefits of abstinence in reducing the risk of these cancers. However, awareness of these risks remains low among the general population.
In France, the message “alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health” is legally required on advertising material, but this is often insufficient to convey the true risks. Additionally, phrases like “drink in moderation” are vague and do not provide clear guidelines. There is a strong need for more specific information, such as the number of grams of pure alcohol and the caloric content, on alcohol containers.
The Role of Alcohol Labeling
CancerWatch, an advocacy organization, believes the charity sector should play a more active role in cancer prevention by pushing for better alcohol labeling. Their proposed ‘manifesto for cancer prevention’ includes:
● Clearly stating the number of grams of pure alcohol per serving.
● Including the caloric content of the beverage.
● Providing the recommended upper limit of alcohol consumption to reduce cancer risk.
This approach aims to educate consumers directly and empower them to make informed choices about their alcohol consumption. Despite the clear benefits, there has been resistance from both the alcohol industry and some government bodies. This reluctance to adopt comprehensive labeling measures highlights the challenges in implementing effective public health policies.
Additional Risks for Children of Parents with Substance Use Disorders and Hereditary Factors
While the direct risks of alcohol consumption on cancer are well-documented, it’s also important to consider the indirect risks posed to children of parents with substance use disorders and hereditary factors.
● Increased Cancer Risk for Children: Children of parents with alcohol dependence may have an increased risk of developing substance use disorders themselves due to genetic predisposition and environmental factors. This can lead to higher alcohol consumption and consequently, a higher risk of alcohol-related cancers.
● Genetic Predisposition: Hereditary factors can play a significant role in cancer risk. Families with a history of alcohol-related cancers may have genetic vulnerabilities that increase the likelihood of developing these cancers. Awareness and preventive measures are essential for these at-risk populations.
● An Additional Adverse Childhood Experience and its Related Impact Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that can have lifelong impact on the development of children. Parental addiction is an ACE. Parental cancer is a stressful situation that can also be classified as an ACE. Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child provides some great information about multiple ACEs, and its exacerbated effect: When a child experiences multiple ACEs over time—especially without supportive relationships with adults to provide buffering protection—the experiences will trigger an excessive and long-lasting stress response, which can have a wear-and-tear effect on the body, like revving a car engine for days or weeks at a time. The more ACEs children endure, the greater the impact of the unresolvable stress, and the more imperative it is to provide meaningful support.
Understanding the link between alcohol and cancer is just the first step. As individuals and COA’s, we can take proactive measures to reduce our risk by moderating our alcohol intake. As collective individuals and organizations we can support initiatives that promote better labeling and public awareness. For those struggling with alcohol dependence, seeking help with a qualified professional or entering a treatment program can significantly lower the risk of alcohol-related cancers.
While the French study and WHO knowledge provide valuable information and insights, the lessons are universally applicable. By improving public awareness and implementing clear, informative labeling on alcoholic beverages, we can make significant strides in reducing the incidence of cancer and promoting a healthier society.
Join us at NACoA and help us take action and prioritize prevention to protect our health and well-being.
