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(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Regular drinking could put you at greater risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Researchers report regular consumption of alcohol more than 30 grams of alcohol per day can cause an interaction that increases colorectal tumors in people with a mutation of the ADH1C gene. This genetic mutation is found in Caucasians. When these patients drink, they produce more acetaldehyde an enzyme that creates a higher risk for colorectal cancer.
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"Regular alcohol consumption of about 50 grams, or approximately four drinks per day, results in a 1.4-fold risk for colorectal cancer compared to non-drinkers," Mikko Salaspuro, M.D., Ph.D., a professor at the University of Helsinki, and a specialist in internal medicine and gastroenterology at the Helsinki University Central Hospital, was quoted as saying.
Researchers found patients with ADH1C mutations metabolize alcohol to acetaldehyde more rapidly. Acetaldehyde goes on to cause cellular DNA damage throughout the body, including the colorectum, the upper aero digestive tract and the breast, study authors said.
In 2007, the International Agency for Research of Cancer released a statement that chronic alcohol consumption increases the risk for colorectal cancer. Study authors say the high rates of alcohol consumption in many countries are making colorectal cancer one of the most highly diagnosed cancers worldwide.
SOURCE: Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 2008
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