Alcohol

Reduce your risk of cancer

Drinking alcohol increases the risk of developing some cancers, particularly cancers of the mouth, throat, oesophagus, stomach, bowel, liver and breast. Oral cancers are six times more common in alcohol drinkers than in non-drinkers.

It is not just heavy drinking that increases cancer risk. Even drinking small amounts of alcohol increases the risk of cancer, and the more you drink, the greater the risk. However the evidence suggests that high levels of consumption (more than 4 standard drinks per day) increases risk of stomach cancer.

Learn more about how you can reduce your risk.

Alcohol advice for cancer survivors

Limiting alcohol may decrease the risk of cancer recurrence. This is because alcohol not only is a risk factor for some cancers, such as head, neck and breast cancers, but it also contributes to weight gain. Excess weight is linked to poor health including cancer. Keeping to a healthy weight is an important part of maintaining overall health.

You can find out more in our Alcohol Advice factsheet.

Reports and submissions

Cancer Council Australia is a strong advocate for evidence-based action to reshape social attitudes concerning drinking, and to reduce the burden of morbidity and mortality caused by alcohol use. You can view these below.