In a stark wake-up call for millions of women worldwide, Medical Oncologist Dr Jeyhan B. Dhabhar of Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre has declared alcohol a stealthy accomplice in breast cancer development. While age, genetics, and family history dominate risk discussions, the oncologist insists that alcohol—often dismissed as a social lubricant—deserves equal scrutiny. “It’s time to move beyond awareness ribbons and confront the hard truth: every sip raises your stakes,” Dr Dhabhar told Health Shots. Backed by mounting scientific evidence, he advocates a zero-tolerance approach: drastically reduce consumption or eliminate it entirely to safeguard long-term breast health.

The primary mechanism linking alcohol to breast cancer lies in its disruption of hormonal balance, particularly estrogen. Peer-reviewed studies in *Alcohol Research and Health* reveal that even moderate intake—defined as one drink daily for women—elevates circulating estrogen levels. Since approximately 70 % of breast cancers are estrogen-receptor positive, this hormonal spike creates a fertile environment for malignant cell proliferation. Postmenopausal women face amplified vulnerability as natural estrogen decline is counteracted by alcohol-induced surges, effectively rewinding the biological clock toward higher risk.

Beyond hormones, alcohol unleashes a molecular saboteur: acetaldehyde. As the liver metabolizes ethanol, it generates this Class 1 carcinogen, which accumulates in breast tissue due to limited local detoxification capacity. “Acetaldehyde directly assaults DNA, causing mutations that initiate cancerous transformation,” Dr Dhabhar explains. Compounding the damage, chronic drinking impairs folate absorption—a B-vitamin essential for DNA repair and synthesis. The result is a perfect storm: genetic errors pile up unchecked, dramatically escalating malignancy odds over time.

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The fallout extends far beyond oncology wards. Alcohol’s systemic toll includes liver cirrhosis, cardiovascular strain, cognitive decline, and mental health deterioration—compounding the cancer threat with a cascade of comorbidities. Women who drink regularly also exhibit diminished treatment efficacy if diagnosed, as compromised organ function hampers chemotherapy tolerance. Dr Dhabhar emphasizes actionable prevention: replace alcoholic beverages with infused water, herbal teas, or mocktails; track intake via apps; and leverage support networks for sustained abstinence. With breast cancer incidence projected to surge 40 % by 2040, the message is unequivocal—your next drink could be the one that tips the scales.

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