Drinking alcohol is a common part of many people’s lives, but it can also trigger severe health complications. One of these risks is an increased chance of developing colon cancer. Research suggests that alcohol consumption can directly affect your colon, raising the likelihood of cancer over time.

This page explores the alcohol and colon cancer risk and highlights the most common symptoms, screening, and prevention methods. You will also learn how to get effective and compassionate treatment for substance abuse.

Are Alcohol and Colon Cancer Linked?

Alcohol and colon cancer are strongly linked. Research has shown that drinking alcohol raises the risk of developing colon cancer. The more you drink, the higher the risk. Alcohol can damage the cells in the colon, leading to changes that may cause cancer. When you consume alcohol, your body breaks it down into acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical that can harm your DNA. Over time, this damage can lead to the growth of cancerous cells in the colon.

All types of alcohol – beer, wine, and spirits – can increase the risk of cancer. Even light or moderate drinking has been associated with a higher chance of developing colon cancer than not drinking at all. Heavy drinking significantly increases the risk of cancer developing

There is a clear link between alcohol consumption and colon cancer, then. Reducing or eliminating alcohol intake can help lower your risk and protect your health.

 

Why Does Alcohol Increase the Colon Cancer Risk?

When you drink alcohol, your body processes it into acetaldehyde, a substance that can damage the cells lining your colon. This damage can cause mutations in the DNA of these cells, making them more likely to turn cancerous over time.

Alcohol also promotes inflammation in the colon, which can further contribute to the development of cancer. Inflammation can weaken your body’s ability to repair damaged cells, allowing cancerous cells to grow more readily. Additionally, drinking alcohol can affect the way your body absorbs important nutrients like folate, which plays a role in protecting against cancer.

Studies have consistently shown that even small amounts of alcohol can increase your risk of colon cancer. The more alcohol you consume, the higher your risk becomes. For those who drink heavily, the risk is much greater, but even moderate drinkers face a higher chance of developing this type of cancer than non-drinkers. Reducing your alcohol intake is a fundamental step in lowering your risk of colon cancer and protecting your health and well-being.

 

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer can develop silently, meaning you might not notice any symptoms at first. As cancer progresses, though, certain signs may appear, signaling that something isn’t right in your digestive system.

One of the most common symptoms is a change in bowel habits. This could mean experiencing diarrhea or constipation that doesn’t seem to subside or noticing that your stool has become narrower than usual. Some people may feel the constant need for the bathroom, but they cannot relieve this sensation.

Another core colon cancer symptom is blood in the stool. This might show up as bright red streaks or cause the stool to appear very dark, almost black. Conditions like hemorrhoids can cause blood in the stool, but consult a doctor to rule out colon cancer.

Unexplained weight loss is another red flag for cancer of the colon. If you’re losing weight without changing your diet or exercise routine, it could be a sign that your body is using extra energy to fight a disease like cancer. Alongside this, you might experience constant fatigue or weakness, which happens because the body is struggling to absorb nutrients or because cancer is causing internal blood loss.

Abdominal discomfort is also a common symptom of colon cancer. This could include pain or cramping in the belly area that doesn’t go away. Some people feel bloated or full even when they haven’t eaten much, which can be due to a blockage in the colon caused by a tumor.

In some cases, colon cancer can cause a feeling of nausea or vomiting, especially if the tumor is causing a blockage in the intestines. This can also lead to a loss of appetite, making the unexplained weight loss even more severe.

Consult a doctor for an evaluation if symptoms persist for several weeks. Early detection of colon cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes, so don’t ignore these potential warning signs.

 

Screening & Prevention Methods for Colon Cancer

Screening and prevention are integral to reducing the risk of colon cancer. Screening involves tests that check for signs of cancer before symptoms appear, making it possible to catch the disease early when it’s easier to treat.

• FOBT (fecal occult blood test): This test checks for hidden blood in your stool. Blood in the stool can be a sign of colon cancer or other conditions, and if the test is positive, further testing like a colonoscopy may be needed.
• Colonoscopy: During this procedure, a doctor uses a long, flexible tube with a camera to look inside the colon and rectum. If they find any polyps (small growths), they can remove them and prevent them from becoming cancerous.
• Stool DNA test: This test looks for specific DNA changes in the stool that could indicate the presence of cancer. Like the FOBT, this test is simple and can be done at home.
• Lifestyle changes: Eat a healthy diet – focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and try to limit red and processed meats, which have been linked to higher cancer risk. Regular physical activity is another key factor. Exercise helps keep your body healthy and lowers your risk of many diseases, including colon cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
• Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol increases the risk of colon cancer. If you consume alcohol, try to drink in moderation – no more than one drink per day for women and two for men.
• Smoking: Smoking is a known risk factor for many types of cancer, including colon cancer. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about resources and support options.

By staying on top of regular screenings and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your risk of colon cancer and take control of your health. Call 949.694.8305 for immediate assistance.

Colon Cancer & Alcohol | FAQs

What is the survival rate of colon cancer?

The survival rate of colon cancer depends on how early it’s detected. When caught early, the 5-year survival rate can be as high as 90%, but it decreases as the cancer spreads.

Is alcohol a carcinogen?

Yes, alcohol is considered a carcinogen, meaning it can cause cancer. It has been linked to several types of cancer, including colon cancer.

What are other cancer risks involving alcohol?

In addition to colon cancer, alcohol use can increase the risk of other cancers, such as breast, liver, esophageal, and throat cancers. The more you drink, the higher your risk.

Get Alcohol Addiction Treatment in a Renowned Center at California Detox 

Do you need help for yourself or someone you love battling alcohol addiction? If so, we can help you at California Detox. We offer immersive inpatient treatment programs at our luxury rehab center in Laguna Beach, California. We’re happy to work with all major health insurance providers so everyone can get the addiction treatment they need.

When you choose supervised alcohol detox at our beachside facility, you get access to medications approved by the FDA and 24-hour care. This makes the alcohol withdrawal process as safe and comfortable as possible. After about a week, you will be ready for ongoing treatment.

All inpatient programs at California Detox account for the unique nature of addictions by delivering personalized treatment plans. Therapies may include:

• Counseling
• Talk therapies like CBT or DBT
• Motivational therapies
• MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Holistic therapies
• Aftercare planning

Begin your recovery from alcohol addiction right away by calling 949.694.8305.