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Think before you drink this festive season

December 16, 2009
 
Two thirds of South Australians who drink underestimate the link between cancer and alcohol, according to research released by Cancer Council SA.
 
The research showed that more females than males understood the link between alcohol and cancer but this knowledge did not necessarily stop them from over-indulging and drinking more than two standard drinks per day.
 
The results are a timely warning as people celebrate during the festive season.
 
Cancer Council SA Chief Executive Professor Brenda Wilson said there is alarge body of evidence which consistently shows that consumption of alcoholic drinks is a risk factor for cancer. Drinking alcohol increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat (larynx and pharynx), oesophagus, bowel (colon and rectum), liver and female breast.
 
“Our research has shown that an alarming number of South Australians are increasing their risk of developing cancer by drinking too much alcohol, which is very concerning” Professor Wilson said.
 
“We understand that this time of the year is all about celebrations and festive fun but we urge people to think about their alcohol consumption which can increase their risk of cancer. And the type of alcohol you drink doesn’t make any difference – beer, wine and spirits all increase your cancer risk.
 
“The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommends that people drink no more than two standard drinks on any day.”
 
Other key findings of the research include, among people who drink:
  • Almost 50 per cent consume more than two drinks on any occasion;
  • Almost 25 per cent drink more than four drinks on any occasion;
  • Men are less likely to recognise the risk of cancer and alcohol consumption and were more likely to engage in high risk/harmful drinking;
  • Younger people are more likely than older people to recognise the importance of alcohol in cancer risks, but are also more likely to engage in high risk/harmful drinking
Professor Wilson said the link between alcohol and cancer is based on current data of around 3,000 cases of cancer in Australia each year being directly attributed to alcohol.
 
“Alcohol is seen as socially acceptable, so many people are unaware it is actually a carcinogen, as is tobacco,” Professor Wilson said.
 
“Besides cancer, heavy use of alcohol can cause short-term and long-term health problems such as cirrhosis of the liver, alcohol dependence and strokes.
 
“Alcohol can also contribute to weight gain which is also a risk factor for developing certain cancers.”
 
Professor Wilson said to minimise the risk of cancer and other health issues relating to alcohol, people should think twice about how much they are drinking this festive season and certainly avoid binge drinking (excessive drinking in one session).
 
“We understand it is a difficult time of year in terms of festive celebrations but many people also want to start the New Year with a healthier attitude, thinking about losing weight and quitting smoking so minimising alcohol intake over the next few weeks will help to achieve this,” Professor Wilson said.
 
“Many ex-smokers also find alcohol weakens their resolve to stay quit and the combined effects of smoking and drinking significantly increase the risk of cancer.
 
“For those people who smoke and drink, the New Year is the perfect time to think about decreasing alcohol intake and quitting smoking.The Quitline(13 78 48) and Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20 will be available throughout the festive season for anyone wanting help to kick the habit.”
 


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