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:
There is an association between drinking alcoholic beverages and an
increased risk of breast cancer.
A need exists for further systematic review of the epidemiological
literature to fully assess the influence of bias, confounding and effect
modification.*
Studies of possible mechanisms provide evidence for a plausible basis
for the causation of breast cancer by alcohol consumption.
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.
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