What Are the Mechanisms Behind Ethanol-Induced Carcinogenesis?
Several mechanisms are involved in ethanol-induced carcinogenesis:
1. Acetaldehyde Formation: As mentioned earlier, acetaldehyde is a carcinogenic metabolite that can form during ethanol metabolism. 2. Oxidative Stress: Ethanol metabolism can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress and DNA damage. 3. Nutritional Deficiencies: Chronic ethanol use can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients such as folate, which is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair. 4. Hormonal Changes: Ethanol can affect hormone levels, particularly estrogen, which is linked to breast cancer risk. 5. Immune System Suppression: Ethanol can suppress the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off precancerous and cancerous cells.
