Drinking white wine may increase risk of melanoma by 13%

According to the American Association for Cancer Research white wine is associated with higher rates of invasive melanoma.  A new study published in Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention analyzed data from three large studies involving 210,252 participants for a total of 18.3 years.  The results showed that white wine intake was associated with a 13% higher risk of melanoma per drink per day (a standard drink was defined as 12.8g of alcohol).

White wine carried the most significant risk whilst other forms of alcohol, beer, red wine and spirits did not significantly affect melanoma risk (Note: all other forms of alcohol are associated with the risk of other cancers including, breast, pancreas, colon and digestive tract.)

The association between white wine and melanoma was strongest for parts of the body that typically receive less sun exposure.  Compared to non drinkers, those who consumed 20g or more of alcohol per day were 2% more likely to be diagnosed with melanomas of the head, neck and extremities but 73% more likely to be diagnosed with melanomas of the trunk. 

Note:  Ethanol in alcohol metabolizes into acetaldehyde which damages DNA and prevents DNA repair.