November 1, 2011

expert reaction to research into low levels of alcohol consumption and breast cancer as published in JAMA

A study linked low levels of alcohol consumption with raised risk of breast cancer.

Prof Valerie Beral, Professor of Epidemiology, University of Oxford, said:

“The fact that small amounts of alcohol can increase women’s risk of breast cancer has been known for at least a decade. This finding confirms what we already know.”

Prof Karol Sikora, medical director of CancerPartnersUK, said:

“The relationship between alcohol intake and breast cancer is very complex. We’ve known for some years now that even small amounts of alcohol can change hormone patterns. But not all women are equally affected.

“This very large study from a much respected source suggested that just a few glasses of wine a week increases breast cancer risk significantly throughout adult life. One of the problems with such studies is how truthful participants really are in filling questionnaires. Underestimates tend to be common. This study does seem to show a clear relationship however.

“My advice is not to worry too much but to make sure you get a balanced diet with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and fibre. Do lots of exercise and stay slim. All this will probably weaken any bad effects from the occasional glass of wine.”

‘Low Levels of Alcohol Consumption Associated With Small Increased Risk of Breast Cancer’, published in JAMA on Tuesday 1 November.