A new study reveals that even small amounts of alcohol can sharply increase the risk of oral cancer among Indian men. Published in BMJ Global Health on December 24, 2025, this research from Tata Memorial Centre in Mumbai challenges the idea of safe drinking levels and highlights the dangers of both branded and local liquors.
Study Details and Methods
Researchers looked at data from over 3,700 men across six cancer centers in India. They compared 1,803 men with buccal mucosa cancer, a common type of oral cancer, to 1,903 healthy men without the disease.
The study ran from 2010 to 2021 and focused only on men because few women reported drinking alcohol. Experts adjusted for factors like tobacco use, age, and diet to get clear results.
This work builds on global evidence linking alcohol to cancer. It adds fresh insights specific to India, where oral cancer rates are among the highest worldwide.
Key Findings on Alcohol and Cancer Risk
The results show drinkers face a 68 percent higher chance of buccal mucosa cancer than non-drinkers. Even low intake, under nine grams per day or about one standard drink, raises the risk by nearly 50 percent.
Locally brewed alcohols like desi daru and tharra pose the greatest threat. These often lack quality controls and may contain harmful impurities.
Here are some standout risks from the study:
- Daily intake of one drink: 50 percent higher risk.
- More than nine grams per day: 81 percent increased risk.
- Locally made liquors: Up to double the danger compared to branded options.
Experts say alcohol harms mouth cells directly and combines with tobacco to amplify risks. In India, where tobacco chewing is common, this mix drives many cancer cases.
Why India Faces High Oral Cancer Rates
Oral cancer makes up about 30 percent of all cancers in India, with over 100,000 new cases each year. Men are hit hardest due to habits like smoking, chewing betel nut, and drinking.
The study points out that six in ten mouth cancer cases link to alcohol. Rural areas see more issues from unregulated local brews that evade taxes and safety checks.
Global data from the National Cancer Institute echoes this. Alcohol raises risks for several cancers, including those in the mouth, throat, and liver. Recent 2025 reports show rising cancer deaths tied to moderate drinking worldwide.
| Alcohol Type | Daily Amount | Risk Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Branded beer or whisky | Less than 9g | 40-50% higher |
| Local desi daru | Any amount | Up to 100% higher |
| Mixed with tobacco | More than 9g | Over 80% higher |
This table shows how different alcohols affect risk levels based on the study.
Health Impacts and Broader Implications
Buccal mucosa cancer affects the inner cheek and spreads quickly if not caught early. Symptoms include mouth sores, pain, and trouble swallowing, often leading to surgery or other tough treatments.
The findings challenge myths about safe drinking. Health groups now push for zero alcohol to cut cancer risks, especially in high-risk groups like Indian men.
This ties into global trends. A 2025 World Health Organization report notes alcohol causes over 700,000 cancer deaths yearly. In India, rising urban drinking adds to the burden on healthcare.
Prevention Strategies and Expert Advice
Study authors call for better rules on local liquors. They suggest taxes, bans on unsafe brews, and education campaigns.
Combining efforts against alcohol and tobacco could save lives. Simple steps like quitting both habits lower risks fast.
Doctors recommend regular checkups for early detection. Community programs in rural India already show promise in reducing tobacco use, and adding alcohol awareness could boost results.
Public health experts urge governments to act. Stronger labels on alcohol bottles warning about cancer risks might help change behaviors.
What This Means for You
If you drink, even occasionally, think about cutting back. The study shows no safe level exists for oral cancer prevention.
Talk to a doctor about your habits. Support groups and apps can help those aiming to quit.
Share this article if it helped you understand the risks better. What are your thoughts on alcohol regulations in India? Drop a comment below to join the discussion.
