According to the latest World Cancer Research Fund analysis, even one glass of alcohol a day—such as a glass of wine or beer (about 10 grams of alcohol)—increases breast cancer risk, both before and after menopause. While no lifestyle eliminates cancer risk entirely, experts estimate that 2 in 5 cases could be prevented by avoiding alcohol, staying active, and maintaining a healthy weight. The report also links regular exercise to lower risk, especially intense activities like swimming and running for pre-menopausal women.
This research confirms that overweight and obesity elevate post-menopausal breast cancer risk, the most common form. Excess weight is also associated with higher risks for 10 other cancers, including colon, liver, and pancreatic.
Breast cancer remains the leading cancer diagnosis for women in the Netherlands. In 2016, the Dutch Cancer Registry (IKNL) reported over 14,000 new cases, with more than 3,000 women dying annually.
To reduce risk, the World Cancer Research Fund advises limiting or avoiding alcohol, increasing exercise, and achieving a healthy weight.
