Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (BCPP) highlights alcohol consumption as a significant risk factor for breast cancer. Research indicates that even light drinking can increase a woman’s risk of developing the disease. Studies show that consuming as little as 10 grams of alcohol per day, which is less than a single standard drink, can elevate the risk of breast cancer. Alarmingly, it is estimated that 5-12% of breast cancer cases in the United States are linked to alcohol consumption. BCPP highlights that a standard drink, defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or one shot of liquor, has approximately 14 grams of alcohol. Furthermore, consuming four or more drinks at a time has been associated with a 29% increase in breast cancer risk. Therefore, reducing or eliminating alcohol intake can significantly lower one’s risk of breast cancer.
To mitigate this risk, BCPP encourages individuals to limit or abstain from alcohol consumption. Additionally, they advocate for spreading awareness about the link between alcohol and breast cancer to family and friends, fostering supportive environments that prioritize non-alcoholic options, and choosing social activities that do not centre around alcohol. On a community level, BCPP suggests systemic changes, such as reducing alcohol advertising near schools and playgrounds, increasing educational efforts about the risks of alcohol, and advocating for policies that limit alcohol sales in areas with high concentrations of retail outlets. By working together to implement these strategies, we can make substantial progress in reducing alcohol-related breast cancer cases and improving public health.
Find more from Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (USA, 2024)
Alcohol Awareness 