While new research is painting a clearer picture of the links between alcohol and cancer, in Ireland statistical information is still difficult to assess.
Given the high rates of both binge and daily drinking here, it would make sense that we have higher instances of certain cancers associated with alcohol. These include mouth, larynx, oesophagus, liver, colorectum and breast cancers, with international research now showing a higher likelihood of such cases if a person consumes alcohol.
But the picture is complicated somewhat by the fact that persons who consume alcohol may also be smokers. Also, data collection in Ireland in relation to alcohol consumption and other illnesses is not definitive or thorough.
Source: Brian O'Connell, Irish Times, 19/07/2011
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