Nothing to “cheers” to here: New research suggests just one or two drinks a day could increase the risk of certain cancers.
According to findings published online in the Aug. 18 BMJ, light to moderate drinking was linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in women and several other cancers in male smokers. Researchers analyzed data from two large U.S. studies that included more than 88,000 women and nearly 48,000 men whose health was monitored for up to 30 years.
"Alcohol can cause cancer, even at levels of light to moderate drinking. The present study reinforces this statement," Jurgen Rehm, director of the social and epidemiological research department at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto, told HealthDay. "Less drinking is better. Limit your consumption of alcohol."
Still, it’s important to note: The study doesn’t prove drinking raises cancer risk. It only shows an association. Experts say that when you're weighing whether or not to down that glass – or two or three – you should consider your smoking history, family history of alcohol-related cancers (such as colon and liver cancer) and your risk of heart disease.