You’ve heard that excessive drinking can cause kidney and liver problems, but did you know that it might lead to skin cancer? A study from 2017 found that for every 10-gram increase in alcohol consumed per day, there was a greater risk of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are the two main types of non-melanoma skin cancers.
Basal cell carcinomas are abnormal, uncontrolled growths or lesions that can sometimes be confused with psoriasis or eczema. They start in the skin’s basal cells, which are in the innermost layer of the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin). Basal cell carcinomas might look like open sores, red patches, pink growths, shiny bumps, or scars. They don’t typically spread beyond the original site.
Squamous cell carcinomas develop in the squamous cells, which make up the middle and outer layer of the skin. This type of cancer can spread anywhere in the body, and some warning signs include a firm, red nodule, a flat sore with a scaly crust, a new sore or raised area on an old scar or ulcer, a rough, scaly patch on your lip that may turn into an open sore, a red sore or rough patch inside your mouth, and a red, raised patch or wart-like sore on or in the anus or on your genitals.
Usually, both of these cancers are caused by extensive exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning beds. However, a study from 2012 found that drinking alcohol can increase your chances of more aggressive forms of these cancers. According to their results, for every 10-gram increase in alcohol intake each day (this is roughly equivalent to a beer or a small glass of wine), the risk of basal cell carcinoma increased by 7 percent, while the risk of squamous cell carcinoma increased by 11 percent.
A different study found a 20 percent increase in melanoma in drinkers (as opposed to those who don’t drink or only drink occasionally). There was also an increased risk of cancer-based on the amount of alcohol consumed, to the tune of a 55 percent increase in risk for those who drink 50 grams of alcohol (about five beers) per day. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and is usually signaled by a change in the appearance of an existing mole or the sudden appearance of an unusual looking growth. It can be deadly if left untreated.
How is there a link between alcohol and skin cancer? The reason UV light can lead to cancer is that it causes mutations in the DNA, which can also be damaged by alcohol use. These studies aren’t definitive, however, and you should keep in mind that other risk factors like pale skin and the amount of sun exposure you receive play a much larger role.
If you or a loved one need help with quitting drugs or alcohol, consider Asana Recovery. We offer medical detox, along with both residential and outpatient programs, and you’ll be supervised by a highly trained staff of medical professionals, counselors, and therapists. Call us any time at (949) 438-4504 to get started.
