Tumours thrive on an alcoholic diet

摘要

Alcohol may accelerate the growth and spread of existing cancers as well as causing certain types of tumour. The finding may also explain why heavy drinkers often have red noses. There are well-established links between heavy drinking and various forms of cancer, especially if people smoke as well. The main organs affected are those which bear the brunt of the alcohol exposure: the mouth, throat, stomach and liver. How alcohol makes cancer start and spread has been a mystery, although some experts think that the culprits are substances formed as alcohol breaks down, such as acetaldehyde.