Daily glass of wine raises risk of breast cancer in women by 9%
DRINKING one small glass of wine a day raises a woman’s risk of breast cancer, a major report concludes.
It means even following safe drinking guidelines of 14 units a week could be enough to endanger health.
A review of 119 studies, involving 12 million women, found a daily glass of wine raises the risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer by 5% and post-menopausal by 9%.
The authors, from the World Cancer Research Fund, estimate 12 000 cases of breast cancer could be prevented in the UK each year if nobody drank alcohol.
They based their calculations on consumption of 10g of alcohol a day, the amount in 100ml of 12% strength wine – less than a standard 125ml small glass. That is equivalent to 8.75 units a week, which is well within the 14 a week limit advised by the government.
The report, also by the American Institute for Cancer Research, found a healthy diet, exercise and watching your weight can reduce the risk of breast cancer. The authors said those who exercised vigorously, such as runners, had a 17% lower risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer compared to those who were least active.
They noted a 10% lower risk for post-menopausal breast cancer. Gentler activity, such as walking or gardening, reduces the risk of developing the disease at any age by 13%.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer for women in the UK, with more than 55 000 new cases and 11 400 deaths each year. Dr Rachel Thompson, head of research interpretation at the World Cancer Research Fund, said, “To help prevent breast cancer, one of the most important steps women can take is to not drink alcohol or reduce the amount of alcohol they drink.” – Daily Mail