Alcoholic beverages, particularly beer and spirits, may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer, according to a major new study by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) cancer research arm.
The study, conducted by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), analysed health data from nearly 2.5 million individuals across Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia. It found a “modest but significant” link between alcohol intake and pancreatic cancer risk, regardless of sex or smoking status.
“Alcohol consumption is a known carcinogen, but until now, the evidence linking it specifically to pancreatic cancer has been considered inconclusive,” said Dr. Pietro Ferrari, senior author of the study and Head of the Nutrition and Metabolism Branch at IARC. “Our findings provide stronger evidence that alcohol itself, independent of tobacco use, raises pancreatic cancer risk.”
The pancreas, which plays a key role in digestion and blood sugar regulation, is often affected by cancer diagnosed at advanced stages, making it one of the deadliest forms of the disease. The study found that for every additional 10 grams of alcohol consumed daily, the risk of pancreatic cancer rose by 3 percent. Among women who consumed 15–30 grams daily (about one to two drinks), the risk increased by 12 percent. Men who drank 30–60 grams daily faced a 15 percent higher risk, while those consuming over 60 grams daily had a 36 percent greater risk.
Importantly, the study showed the association persisted even among non-smokers, reinforcing alcohol as an independent risk factor. Dr. Ferrari emphasized the need for further research into long-term drinking patterns, binge consumption, and exposure during early life.
Despite being the 12th most common cancer worldwide, pancreatic cancer accounts for about 5 percent of cancer-related deaths due to its high fatality rate. Incidence and mortality in 2022 were significantly higher in Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Eastern Asia compared to other regions.