Alcohol and Cancer Risks A Guide for Health Professionals from SHAAP

Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems (SHAAP) published an updated guide for health professionals.

Drinking alcohol is an established risk factor for several malignancies, and it is a potentially modifiable risk factor for cancer. The guide updates previous guidance from SHAAP to summarise for health professionals the links between alcohol consumption and cancers, so that they can use opportunities in their work to intervene to reduce the risks. 

Raising the issue of alcohol consumption with patients can be difficult. However, evidence from many sources suggests that patients are accepting of tactful or empathetic inquiry about aspects of their lifestyle which may have an impact on their health. 
Health professionals are well placed to raise the level of awareness with their patients and clients as part of a comprehensive review of their health and lifestyle.