Alcohol consumption has become an integral part of our social lives. We indulge in alcohol at parties, social gatherings, and even as a stress reliever. However, we rarely consider the long-term effects of alcohol on our bodies.

Alcohol affects several organs in the body, including the liver, pancreas, stomach, and colon. It can also increase the risk of developing several types of cancer. In this article, we’ll discuss the seven organs that are affected by alcohol and cancer.

The Liver

The liver is one of the most vital organs in the body. It is responsible for detoxifying the body and breaking down harmful substances such as alcohol. Alcohol consumption causes inflammation of the liver, leading to an increased risk of liver cancer.

The National Cancer Institute states that heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of liver cancer by up to 10 times compared to non-drinkers. The risk is even higher in people who have a history of hepatitis B or C infections.

The Pancreas

The pancreas is located behind the stomach and plays a vital role in digestion. Alcohol consumption can cause inflammation of the pancreas, leading to pancreatitis.

Long-term alcohol use can cause damage to the pancreas, leading to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.

A study conducted by the National Cancer Institute found that heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of pancreatic cancer by up to 20 times compared to non-drinkers.

The Stomach

The stomach is responsible for breaking down food and delivering it to the small intestine for further digestion. Alcohol consumption irritates the lining of the stomach, leading to inflammation and ulcers.

Long-term alcohol use can also lead to a higher risk of stomach cancer.

A study conducted by the National Cancer Institute found that heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of stomach cancer by up to 6 times compared to non-drinkers.

The Colon

The colon is a part of the large intestine responsible for absorbing water and nutrients from food. Alcohol consumption can irritate the lining of the colon, leading to inflammation and an increased risk of colon cancer.

A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of colon cancer by up to 70% compared to non-drinkers.

The Esophagus

The esophagus is responsible for carrying food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Alcohol consumption can irritate the lining of the esophagus, leading to inflammation and an increased risk of esophageal cancer.

A study conducted by the National Cancer Institute found that heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of esophageal cancer by up to 7 times compared to non-drinkers.

The Larynx

The larynx, also known as the voice box, is responsible for producing sound. Alcohol consumption can irritate the lining of the larynx, leading to inflammation and an increased risk of laryngeal cancer.

A study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of laryngeal cancer by up to 4 times compared to non-drinkers.

The Breast

The breast tissue consists of milk-producing glands and ducts. Alcohol consumption can increase the levels of estrogen in the body, leading to an increased risk of breast cancer.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that women who consume alcohol increase their risk of breast cancer by up to 40% compared to non-drinkers.

Conclusion

Alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on several organs of the body. It can increase the risk of developing several types of cancer, including liver, pancreas, stomach, colon, esophageal, laryngeal, and breast cancers.

It is essential to limit alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of developing these cancers.

People who consume alcohol regularly and are at risk of developing cancer should consult their healthcare provider for proper evaluation, screening, and management.