Algoma Public Health
2017 - Bulletin: Alcohol and Cancer
View this document as a pdf file.
Did you know?
- Drinking alcohol is directly linked to several types of cancer;
- Just one drink a day can raise your alcohol-related cancer risk; and,
- Drinking less or not at all is the best way to reduce your risk.
Having 1-3 drinks a day can increase your risk of cancer for the following types:¹
- Mouth/throat
- Voice box
- Liver
- Esophageal
- Breast (women)
- Colorectal
Between 2010 and 2012 in Algoma, estimates show alcohol use is responsible for:²,³
- 173 new cases of cancer
- 63 deaths from cancer
Self-reported alcohol use in 2013/2014 by Algoma residents:4
- 30.2% of Algoma residents 19+ self-report having 1-3 drinks a day.
-
48.6% of Algoma residents 19+ self-report exceeding the Low Risk Drinking Guidelines.
Manage your alcohol-related cancer risk
- Know and follow Canada’s Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines
- Be familiar with standard drink sizes
- If you don’t drink, don’t start
- Check out Rethink Your Drinking for more information
- Follow up with healthcare provider for recommended cancer screening