One drink a day ups risk of breast cancer

DRINKING just one small glass wine a day can increase the risk of breast cancer, a study has found. The research suggests 12,000 cases of breast cancer a year in the UK could be avoided if no one drank alcohol at all. The World Cancer Research Fund found “strong evidence” a daily intake of around 125ml of 13% wine raised the risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer by 5% and post-menopausal by 9%. The research examined 119 studies involving 12 million women worldwide to evaluate how diet, weight and exercise affected the cancer risk. It found vigorous exercise which increases the heart rate, such as cycling, swimming or running, could lower the risk of pre-menopausal breast cancer. Moderate exercise, such as walking, and vigorous exercise could lower the risk of post-menopausal breast cancer. The study also found overweight women at increased risk of post-menopausal breast cancer. And there was also “limited but suggestive” evidence that eating leafy vegetables, such as cabbage, kale, rocket and spinach, lowered the risk of oestrogen-receptor negative breast cancer. Foods high in carotenoids, such as carrots, tomatoes, apricots, spinach and sweet potatoes, lowered the risk of breast cancer. Professor Sir Ian Gilmore, of the Alcohol Health Alliance, said: “Only one in 10 people are aware of the link between alcohol and cancer. People have a right to know.” Dr Rachel Thompson, of the World Cancer Research Fund, added: “To help prevent breast cancer, one of the most important steps women can take is to not drink alcohol or drink less.” Claims that moderate drinking is good for heart health are“wishful thinking” experts at the University of Victoria in Canada said.

DANGER Drink is cancer risk