Study: Alcohol consumption could increase risk of breast cancer by 10 to 30 percent

WASHINGTON – Drinking alcohol may be more dangerous than you think, according to research released last month. \nIn a study released on Sept. 27, days before the beginning of October’s national breast cancer awareness month, it was found that women who have one or two alcoholic drinks a day increase their risk of breast cancer by 10 percent. Women who consume three or more alcoholic drinks a day are increasing their risk by 30 percent. \nThe research, which was conducted by Arthur Klatsky, an adjunct investigator in the division of research at the Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, looked at more than 70,000 multi-ethnic women who had supplied medical information during health examinations between 1978 and 1985. The conclusions found that the risk factor is not specific to any one form of alcohol in particular – wine, beer and spirits all provide an equal risk of developing breast cancer. \nGWU freshman Courtney Keiser said she did not find the new research \nalarming. \n“I don’t drink, so I wouldn’t change my drinking habits but it’s probably just a new statistic that everyone is worrying about,” Keiser said. \nGWU sophomore Laura Maas said she did not think the research was relevant to her life. \n“I think I would be more aware of how much I drink but I probably wouldn’t really change my habits,” Mass said. “I don’t drink as often as the study showed anyway.” \nSusan Haney, associate director of the Student Health Service, said breast cancer is rare in college students and the majority of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer do not have any risk factors. \nHaney said it is important for women to be aware of their family health history. \n“Girls with a family history of breast cancer have a higher risk,” she said. \nAccording to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, there are simple ways for women to prevent breast cancer: exercising, eating a low-fat diet and consuming less alcohol. Exercising for just four or more hours a week can boost the immune system and decrease estrogen levels. Foods with high-fat content can lead to higher estrogen levels. \nHaving annual exams can help women stay aware of their risk based on their lifestyle, genetic background and age. Women should start getting breast exams when they are 20 or 21 years old.\nThough it is rare, breast cancer can develop in men. According to WebMD.com, male cases of breast cancer only make up 1 percent of total cases, generally occur in men between 60 and 70 years old. \nFor GWU freshman Rob Driscoll, breast cancer is not a major concern and he said that he does not plan to change his habits to try to prevent it. \n“It’s unlikely I would get breast cancer,” he said. “I refuse to change my \ndrinking habits.”