Planning to have a blast this Christmas and new year? Even one drink a day can raise mouth cancer risk by 50%

A new study published in BJM Journals brings fresh attention to a risk factor many people overlook. While tobacco is widely known to cause mouth cancers, this research shows that alcohol alone, even in small amounts, can raise the risk of buccal mucosa cancer. Buccal mucosa cancer affects the inner lining of the cheeks and is one of the most common oral cancers seen in India.

What exactly did the study look at?

Researchers studied 1,803 people diagnosed with buccal mucosa cancer and compared them with 1,903 healthy individuals. These healthy participants were visitors at the same hospitals and represented similar backgrounds. The aim was clear: understand how alcohol, both foreign brands and locally brewed drinks, affects cancer risk.

Local liquor vs foreign alcohol: Is there a difference?

The study looked closely at two types of alcohol. One group included internationally recognised liquors like whisky, rum, and vodka. The other group included locally brewed alcohol, which is commonly consumed in many parts of India. Surprisingly, locally brewed liquor showed a slightly higher cancer risk than foreign alcohol.

How much alcohol is considered risky?

One of the most striking findings was about quantity. Just 9 grams of alcohol per day, which is less than one standard drink, increased the risk of buccal mucosa cancer by nearly 50%. This challenges the common belief that “small amounts” of alcohol are harmless.

Alcohol and tobacco

The risk became much higher when alcohol use was combined with tobacco chewing or smoking. The study found that 62% of buccal mucosa cancer cases were linked to the combined use of alcohol and tobacco. Together, they create a stronger harmful effect on the cells inside the mouth.

The researchers estimated that about 11.3% of buccal mucosa cancer cases in India could be prevented if alcohol and tobacco use were avoided. This shows that lifestyle changes could significantly reduce the number of new cases, especially in high-risk regions.

This research fills an important gap by showing that alcohol is not just a supporting factor but an independent risk for mouth cancer. It sends a clear message that even low-level drinking can have long-term health effects, especially when paired with tobacco habits common in India.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Individuals concerned about alcohol use or cancer risk should consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance.