How do lifestyle factors and exposure to environmental substances affect our cancer risk?
MONDAY, Sept. 17 (HealthDay News) -- Chronic drinkers who stop consuming alcohol can cut their risk for esophageal cancer in half within four to five years, according to a new evidence review.
In the analysis of nine studies, Swedish researchers found drinkers' risk of this type of cancer is reversible if they stop drinking, but it takes them up to 16 years to return to the risk level of people who don't drink.
The study by researchers at Lund University appeared in a recent issue of the journal Addiction, and included an outside commentary by a group including Boston University Medical Center researchers that found the new research "well done."
The study, however, may not have accounted enough for other factors, such as the interaction of smoking and drinking on cancer risk, according to a university news release.
Previous studies show that reducing cancer among non-smokers may be achieved with cutting back on the consumption of alcohol to moderate levels rather than quitting entirely, according to the news release. Low-level regular alcohol intake has been shown to have beneficial health effects on cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other medical conditions.
Aside from alcohol, other factors that can affect the risk of developing esophageal cancer, according to the release, include:
More information
The American Cancer Society has more about the link between alcohol and cancer.
SOURCE: Boston University Medical Center, news release, Sept. 13, 2012
Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
milliep
Thu Sep 20, 2012 02:01 AM
I recently had esophageal cancer surgery. I am a female over 65 who quit smoking at age 32, who only drank wine socially and have not drank alcohol for the passed 8 years. I have lost 50 lbs. and since 2005, eat a normal diet (not consistent with eating my fruit and vegetables on a daily basis but take vitamin supplements. I have reduced my fat and sugar cravings and used reflux medication since approx. age 40. I had no symptoms but was sent for a scope as part of a routine physical with my new physician when it was detected. I do not fit the usual criteria for esophageal cancer so am curious as to why I have it. Following surgery, I developed a cancer lymph node in my neck which is being treated with radiation so I am wondering what my future will hold.
jaycc
Thu Sep 20, 2012 04:35 AM
Make up your minds or be more specific. You have articles from a previous study indicating beer drinking has no impact on EC.
So is it smoking, or is it drinking, what kind of drinking ? Or is it , you really don't know.
Why is EC rising in white males, why is the age younger now ?
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