Most people know that drinking too much alcohol can harm their health, but many don’t realize that it also increases the risk of breast cancer. Even small amounts of alcohol consumed relatively regularly can raise this risk.
Studies have shown that alcohol is linked to about 44,180 breast cancer cases in the U.S. each year—making up 16.4% of all breast cancer cases in women. In fact, breast cancer is responsible for the majority of alcohol-related cancer deaths in women.
Understanding Breast Cancer Risk Factors
Breast cancer develops for many reasons. Some factors, like age, family history, and genetics, are out of our control. But lifestyle choices, such as diet, exercise, and alcohol use, also play a big role.
Alcohol raises estrogen levels, a hormone linked to breast cancer growth. It can also damage DNA, making it harder for the body to prevent cancer cells from forming. Women are more affected by alcohol than men because:
- Their bodies process alcohol differently, making its effects stronger.
- Alcohol raises estrogen levels, which can fuel certain breast cancers.
- Breast cancer is the most common alcohol-related cancer in women.
Can Alcohol Cause Breast Cancer?
While alcohol doesn’t directly “cause” cancer, it increases the risk by affecting hormones and body functions. If we look at alcohol abuse by gender, we find a startling truth: Women absorb alcohol faster than men and break it down slower, meaning it stays in their systems for longer. Because of this, they’re more likely to develop alcohol-related health issues.
Alcohol Consumption and Breast Cancer
People often make claims about the risks of this food item or the dangers of that substance, and it can be difficult to sift out fact from falsehood. This is why accurate, clear statistics are crucial—and we have some notable points to share. Here’s what research shows about alcohol consumption and how risky it is in terms of developing cancer:
- Drinking one drink per day increases breast cancer risk by 10% compared to non-drinkers.
- Drinking two drinks per day raises the lifetime risk to 15.3%, compared to 11.3% for those who drink less than once a week.
- In 2019, alcohol was linked to 44,180 breast cancer cases in the U.S.
- Breast cancer accounts for 60% of alcohol-related cancer deaths in women.
- Even light drinking (one drink daily) affects hormone levels and can contribute to cancer risk.
- Alcohol is also linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, colon, and rectum.
How to Help Prevent Alcohol-Related Breast Cancer
While you can’t control genetics or age, you can lower your breast cancer risk by making healthier choices. The impact past decisions have had on your body, such as the effects seen after prolonged alcohol misuse, can’t be reversed—but you can definitely take steps to reduce further harm.
- Limit Alcohol Intake – The less you drink, the lower your risk.
- Get Regular Screenings – Mammograms and self-exams help detect breast cancer early.
- Eat a Healthy Diet – Nutrient-rich foods support your body’s ability to fight cancer.
- Exercise Regularly – Staying active can help balance hormones and reduce cancer risk.
- Consider Cutting Back on Alcohol – If quitting feels hard, support is available to help.
Make Your Health a Priority Today
The link between alcohol and breast cancer is real, but the good news is that you have control over your choices. Cutting back on alcohol, getting regular screenings, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can make a big difference.
If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol use, Liberty Bay Recovery offers support to help you regain control of your health. Take the first step today—your future self will thank you.
