Link Between Alcohol and Breast Cancer

As many of us (me included) wrap up “Dry January,” here’s another reason to be mindful of alcohol—even beyond this month.

I had heard there was a connection between alcohol and cancer, but I was surprised to learn that up to 16% of annual breast cancer cases in women in the U.S. are attributed to alcohol.

According to the National Cancer Institute, even light drinking can increase risk. Women who have just one drink per day have a higher risk of breast cancer than those who drink less than one drink per week.

The encouraging part: alcohol consumption is a modifiable risk factor. 

Swapping in alcohol-removed wine, non-alcoholic beer, or mocktails can be a simple way to support your long-term health, without giving up flavor. 

Cheers to fewer drinks and lower cancer risk!

Sources: Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, CDC, & National Cancer Institute

#factfriday