There is convincing evidence that alcoholic drinks are linked to cancers of the mouth, larynx and colon in men and pre and post menopausal cancer in women.
In addition, alcoholic drinks are a possible cause of liver and colon cancer in women, according to a report released by the World Cancer Research Fund International (WCRF).
Whether the alcohol consumed is wine, beer or spirits, even a small amount could raises the risk of cancer, the report said. “If alcoholic drinks are consumed, limit consumption to no more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women,” it said.
“Avoid salt-preserved, salted or salty foods. They are probably a cause of stomach cancer,” the report said recommending an intake of less than 6 gm salt per day.
Geoffrey Cannon, WCRF chief editor, who released the report titled ‘Food, nutrition, physical activity and the prevention of cancer: A global perspective’ on Wednesday at an international conference organised by the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI), said cancer can be prevented through small lifestyle changes and by reducing consumption of processed meat.
The study has identified body fat as an important lifestyle-related cause of cancer.
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Among others, the report recommended staying as lean as possible but within the normal range of body weight, being physically active, avoiding sugary drinks, eating foods of plant origin and meeting nutritional needs through diet alone and not supplements.
“The evidence linking red meat to colon cancer is more convincing now than it was a decade ago,” the report said. It suggested non-starchy vegetables, fruits, unprocessed cereals and other low-energy-dense foods.