Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Alcohol increases risk of disease in women
A medical oncologist from North Carolina is explaining how drinking alcohol can increase the risk of breast cancer in women.
Dr. Judith Hopkins of Novant Health said women should pay attention to their family history of breast cancer and if the risk is high it’s a good idea to find alternatives to alcohol consumption.
While Hopkins said life is a series of risks, it’s important to assess the risk before pouring a drink, even in moderation.
Drinking wine coolers, pouring half a glass of wine, or looking up interesting non-alcoholic recipes are a few options to consider.
"If you already have an increased risk for instance, because you have a strong family history of breast cancer or you have a genetic predisposition to breast cancer, then avoidance of alcohol might be even more important for you or significantly limiting alcohol consumption maybe even more for you," Dr. Hopkins said.
According to Novant Health, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women.
