Should We Cut out Alcohol Completely?

Researchers said that even light to moderate drinking could increase risk of cancer.

16:33 20 August 2015

A recent review of the two large US studies involving more than 100,000 adults found that even light to moderate drinking could increase risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer. The study reinforce the health message that there is no guarantee safe level of drinking. However, experts say that drinking within the recommended daily limits can minimise health risks.

 

NHS current recommendation for men is a maximum of four units (two cans of 4.5 lager) a day and two small glasses of 12per cent wine for women. These recommendations are currently under review and may change.

 

Sarah Williams, Cancer Research UK's health information manager, said: "Cutting down on alcohol helps reduce the risk of cancer, so try having more alcohol-free days each week or swapping every other drink for something soft on a night out."

 

Dr Richard Roope, of the Royal College of GPs, said: "GPs do not want to be killjoys - but we want our patients to live long and healthy lives, and lifestyle habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol, are very real risk factors in developing cancer that can't be ignored."

 

A Department of Health spokesman said: "Whilst we have seen a fall in the number of people drinking heavily on a regular basis, drinking even small amounts of alcohol regularly can increase the risks of some health conditions.

 

"We want advice for the public about alcohol to be as clear and relevant as possible, which is why the Chief Medical Officer has brought together a group of experts to review current guidelines."