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Evidence for association between consumption of alcoholic beverages and breast cancer: update of information published between 1995 - 1999


COC statement COC/00/S4 - June 2000
(supporting papers attached)

Overview

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. In England, there are approximately 30,000 cases registered each year and roughly 11,000 deaths from breast cancer. It is important to identify preventative measures to reduce the incidence of breast cancer.

The COC last reviewed extensive literature on the association between alcohol and breast cancer in 1995, but concluded that there was insufficient evidence to establish a causal relationship. The Committee concluded that the matter should be kept under review. As a large number of subsequent publications have become available, it is now appropriate for the COC to update its assessment. The Committee's finalised statement and papers considered during the review are attached as pdf files (see below). Please refer to the statement for full details of the Committee's deliberations.

Conclusions

The COC reached the interim conclusions:

  1. There is an association between drinking alcoholic beverages and an increased risk of breast cancer.
  2. A need exists for further systematic review of the epidemiological literature to fully assess the influence of bias, confounding and effect modification.*
  3. Studies of possible mechanisms provide evidence for a plausible basis for the causation of breast cancer by alcohol consumption.
  4. The COM should be asked to update its 1995 opinion on the mutagenicity data on alcohol.


* The Department of Health is funding this study, but results are not expected for 18 months.

Attached PDF files  

 

Supporting papers prepared by DH Toxicology Unit, Imperial College of Science and Technology