There is strong evidence that drinking alcohol is a cause of many cancers. This evidence justifies the Recommendation not to drink alcoholic drinks.
There is also strong evidence that consumption of alcoholic drinks helps protect against kidney cancer. However, this finding is far outweighed by the increased risk for other cancers.
Does the type of alcoholic drink make a difference?
The evidence shows that alcoholic drinks of all types have a similar impact on cancer risk. This Recommendation therefore covers all types of alcoholic drinks, whether beers, wines, spirits (liquors) or any other drinks, as well as other alcohol sources.
The important factor is the amount of alcohol (ethanol) consumed. Even small amounts of alcoholic drinks can increase the risk of several cancers. There is no threshold of alcohol consumption below which cancer risk does not increase, at least for some cancers.
Our goal
For cancer prevention, it’s best not to drink alcohol
If you do consume alcoholic drinks, do not exceed national guidelines.
Our Cancer Prevention Recommendations represent a package of ways of life which, together, can make an enormous impact on people’s likelihood of developing cancer and other chronic diseases over their lifetimes.
– Professor Martin Wiseman, World Cancer Research Fund International’s Medical and Scientific Adviser
Public health and policy implications
A whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach is necessary to create environments for people and communities that are conducive to limiting alcohol consumption.
A comprehensive package of policies is needed to reduce alcohol consumption at a population level, including policies that influence the availability, affordability and marketing of alcoholic beverages. Policymakers are encouraged to frame specific goals and actions according to their national context.
