HEALTH ALERT: New study shows alcohol use high among cancer survivors, those going through treatment

Alcohol Consumption Common Among Cancer Survivors, Study Finds

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WBAY) – A new study has revealed that alcohol consumption, including risky drinking, is common among cancer survivors and individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

This finding raises concerns among medical professionals due to the fact that alcohol is a known carcinogen for several types of cancer and can complicate cancer treatment such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.

Study Results

Dr. Noelle LoConte, a UW Health oncologist and co-author of the national study, expressed her shock at the results. The study, conducted by the National Institutes of Health, surveyed a diverse group of 15,000 cancer survivors and approximately 1,500 individuals undergoing cancer treatment, posing several alcohol-related questions.

1. 77% of both cancer survivors and patients undergoing treatment reported drinking alcohol.
2. Approximately 25% reported binge drinking.
3. 13% exceeded moderate drinking.
4. Nearly 40% engaged in hazardous drinking.

Dr. LoConte acknowledges that these results are higher than expected, especially considering the negative impact alcohol can have on treatment outcomes, cure rates, and cancer recurrence.

She attributes the increase in alcohol consumption to the ongoing pandemic but also highlights the role of misconceptions surrounding alcohol. For instance, the belief that one glass of red wine can benefit heart health has no scientific evidence according to the American Heart Association.

Dr. LoConte emphasizes that alcohol messaging can be confusing, as it pertains not only to cancer prevention but also to overall health and wellness. However, it is important to note that alcohol is a carcinogen, a fact known by only about a third of the population.

Recommendations

Based on the study findings, Dr. LoConte urges individuals, whether cancer survivors or not, to adhere to the recommended limits for alcohol consumption:

• One drink per day for women
• Two drinks per day for men

If concerned about alcohol use, it is advised to consult with a doctor, as withdrawal from alcohol can be life-threatening.

For more information, you can access the complete study here.

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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 5: Gender Equality
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol
• SDG 5.5: Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic, and public life
• SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status
• SDG 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

No specific indicators are mentioned in the article. However, potential indicators for measuring progress towards the identified targets could include:

• Percentage of cancer survivors and patients in treatment who consume alcohol
• Percentage of cancer survivors and patients in treatment who engage in binge drinking
• Percentage of cancer survivors and patients in treatment who exceed moderate drinking limits
• Percentage of the population aware that alcohol is a carcinogen

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: wbay.com

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