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| - Last Updated on December 24, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A video on social media states that a single sip of alcohol can cause cancer, affecting areas such as the mouth, intestines, and even the breast. We fact checked and found the claim to be mostly false.
The Claim
In an Instagram video posted by the account podcastwala605, the podcast host told the doctor that people who drink alcohol have a higher risk of breast cancer. In response, the doctor explained that even a single sip of alcohol can cause cancer, affecting areas such as the mouth, intestines, and even the breast.
Fact Check
Does drinking alcohol once really increase the risk of breast cancer?
Not significantly. One sip of alcohol is very unlikely to pose an immediate or measurable risk to breast cancer. The link between alcohol and breast cancer is primarily linked with regular, long-term consumption rather than isolated instances. Medical professionals often emphasize that it is the cumulative effect of alcohol over time that raises the risk.
In a 2017 study, a total of 60 cohort studies were included in the analysis from 135 articles. Drinking very lightly or lightly was generally not linked to the development of most cancers, except for breast cancer in women and colorectal cancer in men. However, light drinking was found to reduce the risk of lung cancer in both women and men, and thyroid cancer in both sexes. On the other hand, moderate drinking was linked to a mild risk of colorectal cancer in men and breast cancer in women, but it appeared to lower the risk of blood cancers in both men and women.
According to the American Cancer Society, the more alcohol a person consumes, the higher their breast cancer risk becomes. However, drinking a small amount, like a sip, doesn’t provide enough exposure to alcohol to noticeably increase risk. It’s when alcohol becomes part of a regular routine that the risk starts to build.
Dr. Ayush Heda, MD, DNB (Gynaecology), MCh, Fellow of the European Society of Gynaecologic Oncology, Berlin, explains: “Alcohol consumption, even in small amounts, can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. The risk increases with the amount and frequency of alcohol consumed, and even low levels, such as one drink per day, have been linked to a higher risk. While a single sip may not immediately cause a significant rise in risk, the cumulative effect of regular alcohol intake, even in modest amounts, can elevate the risk over time. The relationship is dose-dependent, meaning the more alcohol consumed, the higher the risk. However, there is no completely ‘safe’ level of alcohol consumption when it comes to breast cancer risk.”
How does alcohol actually influence breast cancer risk?
Alcohol can raise the levels of estrogen in the body, and higher levels of estrogen is linked to the risk of breast cancer. Studies show that alcohol can also impair the body’s ability to process and eliminate carcinogens. This creates a toxic environment in which cancer cells are more likely to grow. But again, this happens mainly when alcohol is consumed regularly over an extended period.
So in simpler terms, alcohol isn’t a direct cause of breast cancer, but it creates an environment where cancer is more likely to develop. One sip, however, would not have a measurable effect on this process.
Can alcohol consumption be safe?
Moderation is the key. Having a sip of alcohol just to try it won’t increase the risk of cancer, but turning it into a regular habit should be avoided.
Most health guidelines suggest, one should limit alcohol to 14 units per week, spread over at least 3 days. For reduction, aim for several alcohol-free days each week. This level is safe for many people, though there are still risks. The risk increases as the amount of alcohol goes up, especially if it’s consumed in heavy or binge drinking episodes.
If you are concerned about alcohol’s potential impact on breast cancer, cutting back on alcohol or eliminating it completely can help reduce your overall risk. Many professionals agree that if you’re looking to take proactive steps for cancer prevention, limiting alcohol is a sensible choice.
We spoke with Dr. Amit Harshana, a General Physician and Community Medicine Specialist at Akeso Health, who shared his insights on alcohol consumption. He explains, “While some studies suggest moderate alcohol intake, like red wine, might offer heart benefits, these are minimal compared to the significant risks such as liver disease, cancers, mental health issues, and addiction. Any potential benefits can be achieved through safer options like a balanced diet and exercise.” Dr. Harshana advises against drinking alcohol for health benefits, stressing that the harms outweigh any modest benefits. For those who drink, he recommends reducing intake and focusing on a healthy lifestyle for better long-term wellbeing.
Dr. Sukrit Kumar, Medical Director at Rainbow Children’s Hospitals, stated that a single sip of alcohol will not cause cancer. In fact, consuming a small amount of alcohol can have therapeutic effects. For instance, a dose as small as 3 ml can act as an antitussive, helping to suppress cough.
Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, General Physician from Navi Mumbai, said “What matters is the long-term pattern of alcohol intake. A single sip might not move the needle, but consistent drinking over the years absolutely can.”
Dr Fatma also added that many products like juices, pickles, kombuchas, and kefir contain trace amounts of alcohol due to fermentation. While a single sip of alcohol may not immediately increase cancer risk, regular consumption or higher quantities of alcohol can elevate the risk over time. It’s important to note that even if you haven’t consumed alcohol before, a single sip doesn’t increase cancer risk. Factors such as age, family history, lifestyle, and environment can also contribute to a higher risk of developing cancer.”
Conclusion
A single sip of alcohol is unlikely to cause a significant increase in your breast cancer risk. It’s the long-term, regular consumption that’s link to higher cancer risks. While it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with alcohol, a balanced approach is recommended. Drinking moderately or occasionally may not dramatically change your cancer risk, but it’s always worth considering healthier lifestyle choices.
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