Daily Drinking Trebles the Risk of Oral Cancer
The government is set to launch adverts to discourage people from drinking on a regular basis, after it was revealed that drinking just two glasses of wine or strong beer each day trebles the risk of oral cancer.
The adverts are designed to raise awareness of the causes and symptoms of oral cancer, as well as encouraging people to cut down on the amount they drink and have at least two days per week without drinking any alcohol.
The adverts, which are designed to be hard-hitting, will also highlight health risks associated with drinking, including an increased risk of high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.
In addition to the television campaign, health professionals will also be sent leaflets to give out to patients to educate them about the dangers related to daily drinking. Ministers are eager to raise awareness of potential health problems after it was revealed that 1 in 5 adults drink more than the recommended daily allowance.
Research carried out by Cancer Research UK concluded that alcohol is directly linked to 12,500 cases of cancer each year in the UK, which includes cancer of the breast, throat, mouth and bowel.
Health Secretary, Andrew Lansley, said that it can be very easy for people to get into a routine of having a couple of drinks to unwind in the evening or accompany a meal, but this can be very damaging for health and it is important that people know the risks they are taking when they drink on a daily basis. The government has decided to launch the new campaign to alert people to the dangers of regular drinking, as many people only assume that there are risks associated with binge drinking.
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