Introduction: A Complex Relationship Between Wine and Cancer
In a recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, researchers performed meta-analytical research to determine the relationship between wine intake and cancer.
Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Smoking, alcohol use, tobacco intake, and a high body mass index (BMI) are the critical risk factors determining the total burden of cancer. Interestingly, while alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of developing various cancers (including those of the head, neck, upper gastrointestinal tract, breast, liver, rectum, and colon), wine consumption in moderate quantities has demonstrated opposing effects. The current understanding of alcohol intake and cancer remains contentious, particularly concerning wine consumption, warranting further research.
In the present meta-analysis, researchers investigated whether wine consumption can increase cancer risk.
Study: Association between wine consumption and cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Image Credit: DALL·E 3
Data Pool and Inclusion Criteria
The Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, and MEDLINE (PubMed) databases were searched from their inception through to December 12, 2022, for relevant records without publication date limitations. Additionally, the team screened references from previously conducted qualitative (systematic reviews) and quantitative (meta-analyses) research. Only longitudinal studies evaluating the link between wine intake and cancers of the upper gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, colon, rectum, skin, pancreas, brain, lungs, and gynecological tissues were included.
The team excluded reviews, editorials, ecological studies, case reports, studies not published in Spanish or English, and those with no separate wine