You probably know that alcohol can be harmful to your health. Drinking in excess can threaten your operational readiness, but did you know even small amounts of alcohol can increase your risk of seven types of cancer? Consuming alcohol may also cause problems with your relationships, finances and work performance. It’s important to consider what is best for you and the mission when making decisions about alcohol. If you choose to drink, moderation is key.

Which Cancers Are Related to Alcohol Use?

Alcohol use is linked to seven types of cancer. This means that people who drink are at higher risk of these cancers than those who do not, even if you only use alcohol lightly. Even potential benefits from certain types of alcohol like red wine are offset by the risks involved. The risk goes up more if you engage in excessive alcohol use, such as binge drinking.

  • Mouth
  • Throat & Esophagus
  • Voice Box
  • Liver
  • Breast
  • Colon & Rectum

How Does Alcohol Increase Cancer Risk?

Drinking any kind of alcohol can take a toll on your body. Even if you don’t feel different, alcohol might be slowly changing how your body functions. Since these processes mostly occur on a cellular level, it’s normal not to realize they’re happening. Yet over time, these changes can result in more serious health concerns like cancer.

Damages DNA: When your body breaks down alcohol, it creates a toxic chemical called acetaldehyde that harms DNA. Alcohol can also lead to oxidative stress, which causes damage to your DNA and other parts of the cell. When DNA is damaged, cells can start to grow abnormally and become cancer.

Increases inflammation and hormones: Drinking alcohol can increase inflammation within your body and disrupt normal functioning. Your hormones are affected by alcohol too, especially for women. Alcohol can raise your levels of estrogen, a hormone that plays a role in the development of breast cancer.

Higher exposure to carcinogens: Alcohol alters the cells in your mouth and throat, making it easier for your body to absorb other cancer-causing elements. For example, smoking or vaping while drinking can increase your exposure to toxins and raise your risk of cancers in the mouth, throat and esophagus.

Prevents nutrient absorption: Alcohol can reduce your body’s ability to process and absorb essential nutrients, including fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins. These vitamins promote optimal health and can protect against cancer. If your body doesn’t get these nutrients, you may be at higher risk of cancer.

What Can I Do to Protect Myself?

The less alcohol you consume, the lower your risk of cancer. It’s best for your health if you avoid alcohol altogether. If you choose to drink, it’s safest to do so in moderation. This means no more than one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men. Take a moment to consider whether these recommendations match your current alcohol habits. If not, consider making a plan to drink less.

Alcohol is often considered a part of military culture. Warfighters may feel an expectation to drink in certain situations, such as retirement ceremonies or post-work outings with teammates. Social pressure can lead to unhealthy drinking behaviors and negative outcomes. It may be tough to resist these influences, but you always have a choice.

Drinking can be enjoyable, but it comes with risks. If you choose to drink, defend your mission readiness by doing so responsibly. Drinking less can lower your cancer risk, improve your health and boost your operational capabilities. If you feel you need help managing your alcohol intake, consult your health care team, command leadership or chaplain.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, Dial 988 then Press 1. 

 

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