There are lots of good health reasons for cutting down on alcohol – and reducing your cancer risk is one of them.

Research has shown that alcohol is particularly harmful when combined with smoking, especially for increased risk of liver, oesophageal, mouth and throat cancer.

To reduce your cancer risk as much as possible, we recommend not drinking alcohol at all. If you do choose to drink alcohol, follow national guidelines. In the UK, the guideline is to drink no more than 14 units a week, which is roughly equal to seven drinks, spread over at least three days.

• Find out more about the Risk Factors around alcohol and cancer.

Tips for reducing your alcohol intake

Opt for the smallest serving size

Remember the standard serving size may not be the smallest. Avoid double measures of spirits, even if they are promoted as ‘better value’.

• Our free alcohol factsheet (pdf) has more information

Alternate!

Alternate between alcoholic drinks and water or low-calorie soft drinks.

• If you're entertaining at home try our alcohol-free Berry Sparkle

Dilute alcoholic drinks

Dilute alcoholic drinks – ideally with a low-calorie mixer – to make them last longer. For example, opt for a small white wine spritzer with soda water rather than a large glass of wine.

• How many calories are you drinking? Try our alcohol calorie counter

Alcohol-free days

Aim to keep a few days each week alcohol-free.

• Be inspired to make changes with a Healthy New You Planner (pdf)