Health

High alcohol consumption linked to colon cancer in EU citizens

Recent study found a link between high alcohol intake and colon cancer in EU citizens. Learn about the study and the prevention methods to reduce the risk of colon cancer by Dale Francis
Estimated reading time: 2 min 25 sec
High alcohol consumption linked to colon cancer in EU citizens Photo by Jill Burrow on Pexels

It is no surprise that excessive alcohol consumption can cause various health problems, including liver cirrhosis, high blood pressure, and other life-threatening illnesses.

Recently, a new study revealed that high alcohol consumption is also linked to colon cancer in European Union (EU) citizens. The study was conducted by the European Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research Centre and was published in the Annals of Oncology on August 10, 2021.

The Study

The study aimed to identify the relationship between colon cancer and alcohol consumption in the EU population.

The researchers analyzed the data of 367,799 adults from seven different countries, including Greece, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, and Denmark. The study participants were aged between 35 and 70 years old and were followed up for an average of 8.5 years.

The study found that high alcohol consumption was a significant risk factor for colon cancer. The researchers defined high alcohol consumption as consuming more than 2 drinks per day for men and more than 1 drink per day for women.

The study found that 4% of all colon cancer cases were attributable to high alcohol consumption.

Alcohol and Colon Cancer

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in both men and women in the EU. It is estimated that over 200,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer in the EU every year.

Related Article Alcohol consumption in the EU increases risk of colon cancer Alcohol consumption in the EU increases risk of colon cancer

Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the well-known risk factors for colon cancer. Alcohol can cause damage to the cells in the colon and rectum, leading to cancer development.

Studies have found that alcohol consumption increases the risk of colon cancer by up to 50%. The risk of colon cancer increases with the amount of alcohol consumed and the duration of alcohol consumption.

Other Risk Factors for Colon Cancer

Aside from high alcohol consumption, there are several other risk factors for colon cancer. These include:.

  • Older age
  • Family history of colon cancer
  • Smoking
  • Poor diet, especially one that is high in red meat and processed meat
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes

Preventing Colon Cancer

While colon cancer is a serious condition, there are several things that you can do to reduce your risk of developing it. Some of the prevention methods include:.

  • Eating a healthy diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, and low in red and processed meat
  • Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight
  • Reducing alcohol consumption, or avoiding alcohol altogether
  • Quitting smoking
  • Getting screened regularly for colon cancer, especially if you are over the age of 50 or have a family history of the disease

The Bottom Line

The new study highlights the importance of limiting alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of colon cancer. While alcohol in moderate amounts can be consumed safely, excessive consumption can lead to serious health problems, including colon cancer.

By adopting a healthy lifestyle and limiting alcohol consumption, you can reduce your risk of developing colon cancer and other chronic diseases.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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