Can alcohol consumption increase my risk for breast cancer?
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Johns Hopkins Medicine answered:Several studies have shown an association between alcohol consumption and the development of breast cancer. Nevertheless, alcohol's role in the development of breast cancer remains unclear. Dietary guidelines suggest that a woman consume no more than one drink per day. Women diagnosed with breast cancer may want to consider avoiding alcohol.Helpful? 1 person found this helpfulSeveral studies have shown an association between alcohol consumption and the development of breast cancer. Nevertheless, alcohol's role in the development of breast cancer remains unclear. Dietary guidelines suggest that a woman consume no more... More -
Dr. Ajay Sahajpal of Aurora Health Care answered:Studies done on alcohol consumption and breast cancer show that alcohol does increase the risk of breast cancer. Women who drink 2-3 drinks a day have a 20% higher risk of breast cancer. Alcohol changes the way estrogen is metabolized in the body, causing blood estrogen levels to increase. Alcohol also decreases the levels of folic acid in the body which helps the body copy and repair DNA; low folic acid levels can lead to errors in cell division that cause cancer.
Studies done on alcohol consumption and breast cancer show that alcohol does increase the risk of breast cancer. Women who drink 2-3 drinks a day have a 20% higher risk of breast cancer. Alcohol changes the way estrogen is metabolized in the body,... More -
Several studies have shown an increased risk of breast cancer with alcohol consumption. Even as few as 3 to 6 alcoholic drinks per week is associated with a small increase in the risk of breast cancer. Further, consumption both early and later in adult life is also associated with an increased risk. If you feel you have a problem with alcohol or need help quitting, contact your primary care physician for resources in your community.Several studies have shown an increased risk of breast cancer with alcohol consumption. Even as few as 3 to 6 alcoholic drinks per week is associated with a small increase in the risk of breast cancer. Further, consumption both... More
