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Doc Talk: Is wine different from other alcoholic drinks when it comes to cancer risk?
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Wine, among alcoholic drinks, is often an outlier in scientific research.
PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO
Wong Seng Weng
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- Alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the IARC, increasing the risk of cancers, including mouth, throat, oesophagus, liver, breast and colonrectum cancers.
- Studies suggest wine might pose a lower cancer risk than spirits or beer, possibly due to antioxidants like resveratrol, especially when consumed with meals.
- Despite potential benefits, moderation is key; the IARC states there is no "safe level" of alcohol consumption, and lifestyle differences may influence cancer risk.
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SINGAPORE – Warning: This column on wine and cancer may be confusing.
There is no debate: Alcohol increases cancer risk. Right?
