A landmark study by the Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) has revealed that there is no safe limit for alcohol consumption when it comes to oral cancer. The research specifically highlights that even minimal intake, such as a few gulps of beer, significantly raises the risk of buccal mucosa cancer in India.
Add rightsofemployees.com as a Preferred Source
No Safe Limit for Alcohol Consumption
The study, published in BMJ Global Health, indicates that even low daily intake—just 9 grams or roughly one standard drink—is linked to a 50% heightened risk of mouth cancer. Specifically, consuming just two grams of alcohol from beer daily was associated with a 59% higher risk compared to non-drinkers. Researchers emphasize that the “safe limit” is a myth, as any amount of ethanol can alter the mouth’s inner lining and increase its vulnerability to carcinogens.
Also Read | Duplicate Voter ID Card Guide 2026: Apply & Download Online
The Deadly Synergy: Alcohol and Tobacco
The findings underscore a “more than additive” danger when alcohol is combined with tobacco chewing. While tobacco alone triples the risk and alcohol alone increases it by 76%, the combination leads to a staggering 346% increased risk. This synergy accounts for 62% of all buccal mucosa cancer cases in India. Consequently, health experts are calling for urgent public awareness and stricter alcohol control policies to combat this preventable disease.
Impact of Locally Brewed Alcohol – Key Figures
| Parameter | Impact on Risk |
| Alcohol Consumption (Overall) | 68% Higher Risk |
| Regulated Drinks (Whisky/Beer) | 72% Higher Risk |
| Locally Brewed Liquor (Tharra/Desi) | 87% Higher Risk |
| Joint Alcohol & Tobacco Impact | 62% of Cases Attributable |
| 5-Year Survival Rate | 43% |
Also Read | Duplicate Voter ID Card Guide 2026: Apply & Download Online
Risk Variation Across Indian States
The burden of alcohol-related oral cancer varies significantly across the country. In states like Meghalaya, Assam, and Madhya Pradesh, over 14% of buccal mucosa cancers are linked to alcohol. In contrast, states with alcohol bans, such as Gujarat, show a much lower attributable risk. Experts point out that unregulated local drinks often contain toxic contaminants like methanol, which further spikes mortality rates.
Also Read: [5 Major Changes for Central Govt Employees in 2025]
Conclusion and Disclaimer
The Tata Memorial Centre study provides clear evidence that avoiding both alcohol and tobacco is the most effective way to eliminate mouth cancer. As survival rates remain poor due to late diagnosis, prevention through lifestyle changes is critical.
Disclaimer: This report summarizes medical research findings published in December 2025. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and screening for oral health…
Also Read | Duplicate Voter ID Card Guide 2026: Apply & Download Online
Add rightsofemployees.com as a Preferred Source
