May 26 2008
Genetic solution for alcohol related cancer
May 26: A genetic study will help to know more about the reason behind alcohol related cancer. The reason for some habitual drinkers getting affected by cancer while most others do not has remained as a riddle for a long time. The European study tries to find a solution for that, they have found two gene variants that protects against mouth and throat cancers.
The findings of the research were published in Nature Genetics. According to the study people who have those genes will acquire the ability to break down alcohol into less harmful chemicals. While Cancer Research UK suggested that reducing the consumption of alcohol is the effective way to prevent cancer.
The research team was led by the International Agency for Research on Cancer in Lyon, France; they considered 9000 cases of people of similar age group and lifestyle who are with or without mouth or throat cancer symptoms.
The researchers found that more than seven out of ten people, who are treated for mouth cancer, drank more than the recommended limit of alcohol along with smoking that is known risk factor for oesophageal cancer. Earlier research had found that a particular gene named ADH will help to get rid of risks posed by cancer.
While commenting on this Hazel Nunn of Cancer Research UK said: “It is an interesting study, but further research is needed to get a clear picture about the role played by these gene variants in developing cancer. The best practical advice to minimise the risk of mouth, pharynx, larynx and oesophagus is to quit smoking and consume less alcohol.”
Drinking habit is also considered as one of the main reasons for breast, bowel and liver cancer.
