India
The idea of ‘safe’ alcohol consumption is misleading, according to gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi. In an Instagram video shared on March 10, he stated that no amount of alcohol is free from health risks. Alcohol is a toxic substance that can harm the body, including increasing the risk of cancer, regardless of the quantity consumed.
Alcohol increases the risk of at least seven types of cancer
Dr. Sethi addressed a common question he receives from his parents: “How much alcohol is safe to drink?” He explained in his video, “There is a new advisory indicating that alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing at least seven types of cancer – mouth, throat, voice box, esophagus, breast, liver, and colon. Alcohol is now the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the U.S., following smoking and obesity. Many people believe that red wine offers significant health benefits, but that’s a misconception.”
No level of alcohol is truly safe
Dr. Sethi emphasized that the risk of developing cancer and other health issues increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. Even light to moderate drinking can be harmful, particularly in terms of cancer risk.
“Earlier studies suggested that light to moderate drinking could slightly reduce the risk of heart disease, but a recent meta-analysis has debunked this claim. In fact, even consuming just a few drinks per week raises the risk of cancer,” he stated.
Make informed choices about alcohol consumption
Dr. Sethi advised that reducing alcohol intake is a step in the right direction but reiterated that no amount of alcohol is entirely risk-free when it comes to cancer. He urged people to be cautious and make informed decisions about drinking.
If you have concerns about your alcohol consumption and its impact on your health, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
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