Survey reveals poor awareness of alcohol dangers
The majority of Britons are unaware of the links between exceeding alcohol guidelines and serious illnesses, a survey has revealed.YouGov polled 2,123 adults on behalf of the Department of Health and found that 85 per cent of people did not realise that drinking more than the guidelines increases a person's risk of developing breast cancer.
Two-thirds did not know of the association with bowel cancer, and 37 per cent were unaware that excess alcohol consumption could reduce their fertility.
Health secretary Andrew Lansley urged people to keep an eye on the amount of alcohol in their daily diet.
He said: "It can be easy to slip into the habit of having a few extra drinks each day, especially when drinking at home. But there can be serious health risks. Don't let drinking sneak up on you."
Sarah Lyness, executive director of policy and information at Cancer Research UK, revealed that nearly 12,500 cancers are caused by alcohol each year in the UK.
Even quite low levels of drinking can increase a person's risk of cancer, but people can protect their health by cutting back, she advised.
"Small changes can really make a difference - so try swapping a glass of wine or beer for a soft drink or having a few alcohol-free days a week," Ms Lyness added.
