There’s a Proven Link Between Alcohol and Breast Cancer Risk — So Why Don’t We Hear About It?

Most people are aware that drinking can lead to a handful of health problems — which is why doctors are always recommending that we drink in moderation when we do feel the need to indulge. But we very rarely hear about the link between alcohol and breast cancer. In fact, a lot of people don’t even know drinking can increase their breast cancer risk. A new study from Flinders University in Australia looked at the drinking habits of middle-aged women (age 45-64) and tried to explain why the breast cancer risks associated with drinking alcohol for this demographic wasn’t really receiving any attention. The study’s intention was to bring awareness to this risk … and think of ways to spread that awareness.

Medical Oncologist and SurvivorNet Medical Advisor Dr. Elizabeth Comen said that while the breast cancer risk associated with alcohol isn’t dramatic, it’s still certainly there. “With every drink there is a linear response. What that means is … each drink increases a woman’s risk for breast cancer,” Dr. Comen said. “So binge drinking, it’s not good for anybody, and it’s also not good for a woman’s increased risk for breast cancer. So patients ask me this all the time: how much can I drink? If you want to have absolutely no risk from alcohol … then don’t drink at all.”