Publication:

Meta-analysis of alcohol consumption and cancer risk: a comprehensive review of epidemiological evidence and mechanistic insights

Alcohol consumption has been identified as a risk factor for various types of cancer. This meta-analysis aims to quantify the association between alcohol intake and cancer risk and to explore the underlying biological mechanisms. A comprehensive literature search was conducted for studies published between January 2000 to December 2023. Eligible studies included cohort and case-control studies that reported relative risks (RRs) or odds ratios (ORs) for cancer associated with alcohol consumption. Data were extracted and pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic. Subgroup analyses were performed based on cancer type and level of alcohol consumption. A total of 75 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Alcohol consumption was significantly associated with an increased risk of several cancers, including those of the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, liver, breast, and colorectum. The pooled RRs for high vs. low/no alcohol consumption were as follows: oral cavity and pharynx (RR=3.15, 95% CI: 2.44-4.05), esophagus (RR=2.89, 95% CI: 2.19-3.81), liver (RR=1.83, 95% CI: 1.39-2.40), breast (RR=1.25, 95% CI: 1.14-1.37), and colorectum (RR=1.21, 95% CI: 1.09-1.34). Heterogeneity was moderate to high across studies. This meta-analysis confirms the significant association between alcohol consumption and increased risk of multiple cancers. Public health strategies should emphasize reducing alcohol intake to lower cancer risk.