North Tyneside Council is working with regional alcohol programme Balance to encourage people to talk about alcohol and cancer during Cancer Prevention Action Week.
Most people know smoking causes cancer. But few realise that any level of regular drinking can increase risks of seven types of cancer, such as breast, bowel, mouth, and throat cancer.
Drinking less alcohol can also help you lose weight, feel better and boost your mental health. You’ll start saving money straight away too.
To stay at “lower risk” health experts advise:
- Limit your drinking to no more than 14 units each week (about six pints of lager, six medium glasses of wine, or six double spirits a week).
- Have at least three alcohol-free days each week to help your body recover.
Councillor Joan Walker, North Tyneside Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Public Health and Socio-Economic Inequalities said:
“Harmful consumption of alcohol increases damage to our health and disproportionately affects residents living in more deprived areas. Tackling health inequality is a priority, and we work with our health and community partners to try and prevent the harm caused by alcohol.
“Cutting back on alcohol can lower our health risks but also bring immediate benefits in how we feel, including having more energy, more money and more positive mental health.”
Alcohol is linked to over 200 health problems, including heart disease, liver disease. Try the quiz at ReduceMyRisk.tv to see how your drinks add up and find out about ways to cut down.
If you’re worried about how much you are drinking or the impact that alcohol is having on your health, you can speak to your GP or the North Tyneside Recovery Partnership. If you’re in North Tyneside and worried about a loved one drinking too much, you can contact PROPS.