Cancer Research UK has issued a stark warning that alcoholic drinks commonly available at UK supermarkets can cause seven types of cancer. In an Instagram post, the charity emphasized that all types of alcoholic beverages increase cancer risk, as it is the alcohol itself that causes damage, even in small amounts.
Alcohol Causes Seven Types of Cancer
The charity's post stated: "Alcohol causes seven types of cancer. All types of alcoholic drink increase the risk of cancer, as it's the alcohol itself that causes damage - even in small amounts." The cancers linked to alcohol include breast, bowel, mouth, liver, and several types of throat cancer.
Cancer Research UK's website further explains: "You may have heard that drinking alcohol can be good for the heart or help lower blood pressure. But NHS guidance on alcohol states that the evidence for any health benefits from alcohol is not clear. Research has shown there is no completely safe level of drinking, and the risk of cancer increases from drinking even small amounts of alcohol."
Tips to Reduce Alcohol Intake
The charity offered practical advice for cutting down: keep track of drinking habits, have drink-free days, swap to non-alcoholic alternatives, avoid buying rounds, don't stock up at home, and be realistic and stick to it. The post added: "Making a few changes to your drinking habits can make a big difference in helping you cut down your risk of cancer."
NHS Guidance on Alcohol
The NHS website reiterates that there is no safe drinking level. Drinking fewer than 14 units per week is considered low-risk, but it is not safe. Regularly exceeding 14 units per week over 10 to 20 years can lead to mouth cancer, throat cancer, breast cancer, stroke, heart disease, liver disease, brain damage, and nervous system damage. The NHS also notes strong links between alcohol misuse and self-harm, including suicide.
Cancer Research UK's campaign highlights that cutting down on alcohol has many health benefits and reduces cancer risk, urging shoppers to reconsider their alcohol consumption from supermarket purchases.
