UK cancer agency warns that even low alcohol intake raises cancer risk

Britain's Cancer Research UK said that consuming even small amounts of alcohol increases the risk of cancer, noting that the substance itself is harmful regardless of the type. In a social media post, the organization said alcohol is linked to seven types of cancer, including breast, bowel, mouth, liver and throat cancers, and that reducing intake can lower the risk. The group urged consumers to track their drinking habits, set alcohol-free days, choose non-alcoholic alternatives and avoid keeping large quantities of alcohol at home. Britain's National Health Service (NHS) said regular consumption of more than 140 milliliters of pure alcohol per week over 10 to 20 years raises the risk of mouth, throat and breast cancers, as well as stroke, heart and liver disease, and damage to the brain and nervous system. The service also cited links between excessive drinking and mental health problems, and between alcohol misuse and self-harm and suicide.