Is alcohol responsible for 15% of breast cancers?

Alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for breast cancer, and studies suggest it may account for approximately 5% to 15% of cases worldwide, depending on the population and level of consumption. Some context is in order here.

Alcohol increases estrogen levels in the body. Increased levels of estrogen and other hormones can contribute to the growth of hormone-sensitive breast cancers. As alcohol is broken down in the body, acetaldehyde is produced, a toxic substance that can damage DNA and therefore increase the risk of cancer.

The exact percentage of breast cancers caused by alcohol varies by region and population. In developed countries, where alcohol consumption is higher, it is estimated that 10-15% of breast cancer diagnoses are related to alcohol. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that alcohol is responsible for approximately 5-10% of breast cancer cases.

Alcohol consumption, together with other risk factors, such as smoking or an unhealthy lifestyle, can further increase the risk of breast cancer. Even light alcohol consumption (for example, one drink per day) increases the risk. However, this risk increases as alcohol intake increases.

The exact contribution of alcohol is not clear. There are other dietary and environmental factors that influence breast cancer. These other dietary and environmental factors often occur together with alcohol consumption, making it difficult to determine the contribution of each of these factors.

Source: https://cdn.nimbu.io/s/yba55wt/assets/1736349545775/oash-alcohol-cancer-risk.pdf

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2025-01-10 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025