Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 27: Alcohol consumption, even in small amounts, significantly increases the risk of buccal mucosa cancer, the most common and aggressive form of oral cancer in India, according to a large multicentre study published in BMJ Global Health.

The study analysed data from over 1,800 men diagnosed with buccal mucosa cancer and nearly 1,900 cancer-free individuals across six cancer centres in India. After adjusting for tobacco use and other factors, researchers found that men who had ever consumed alcohol faced a 68 per cent higher risk compared to non-drinkers. Notably, even consumption below one standard drink per day was linked to a significantly higher risk, indicating there is no safe level of intake.

Locally brewed liquors such as desi daru, tharra and mahua were associated with particularly high risks, with country liquor users facing nearly double the risk of developing the cancer. Beer and whisky were also linked to increased risk, even at lower consumption levels.

The study also highlighted a strong interaction between alcohol and tobacco use, especially smokeless tobacco, estimating that over 60 per cent of cases could be attributed to their combined use. Researchers warned that the findings challenge the notion of ‘safe’ or moderate drinking and called for integrated prevention strategies targeting both alcohol and tobacco use.

Buccal mucosa cancer has a poor five-year survival rate and a significant number of cases were found among men below 45 years, underscoring early exposure and long-term health risks.