New Study: White wine associated with increased risk of skin cancer
You may want to reach for a glass of red wine instead this holiday.
You may want to reconsider knocking back that glass of white wine this holiday. A new study from Brown University found that alcohol intake, in particular white wine, is associated with higher rates of skin cancer among white men and women. Worrisome? You bet.
White Wine vs. Other Alcoholic Beverages
The study followed a sizable participant size of over 200,000 people for an 18 year period. While they discovered alcoholic beverages like beer and red wine did not pose a significant health risk to the skin, each drink per day of white wine was associated with an alarming 13 percent increased risk of melanoma – the deadliest type of skin cancer.
The science behind it? The ethanol content in alcohol metabolises into acetaldehyde, which damages DNA and prevents DNA repair. Interestingly, although red and white wine have similar amounts of acetaldehyde, it is likely that the antioxidants in red wine reduces the likelihood of skin cancer and skin damage.
Is the Occasional Glass of Wine Healthy?
For those under the impression that the occasional glass of wine is healthy – you’re quite right. Scientists acknowledge that some alcohol intake has been connected to a reduction in heart disease, although its risks and benefits also have to be factored on an individual level. While there were too few non-white participants in the study to assess how alcohol affects melanoma or skin cancer risk in minority groups, it’s best to stay on the safe side. We’re definitely re-thinking our love of Sauvignon Blanc at this point.
Sarah Khan
Photo: Getty Images
Read More:
Epicurio: The #1 social app for wine and spirit enthusiasts
