Nigeria: Heavy drinking increases colorectal cancer risk

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

A recent study has found that the total amount of alcohol consumed over a person’s lifetime significantly impacts their risk of developing colorectal cancer, particularly rectal cancer. The research, which analyzed data from over 88,000 adults, revealed that individuals who consumed an average of 14 or more drinks per week had a 25% higher risk of colorectal cancer and a 95% higher risk of rectal cancer compared to those who had less than one drink per week.

The study also showed that consistent heavy drinking throughout adulthood increases the risk of colorectal cancer by 91% compared to light drinking. However, the good news is that quitting alcohol can lower this risk, with former drinkers showing no increased risk of colorectal cancer and even having lower odds of developing noncancerous colorectal tumor.

These findings highlight the importance of considering lifetime alcohol consumption when assessing cancer risk. The study’s authors suggest that reducing or stopping alcohol consumption can help lower the risk of colorectal cancer, particularly rectal cancer.