• Latest news

Middle-Aged Women in the U.S. More Likely to Misuse Alcohol and Less Aware of Associated Risks

June 23, 2026  15:47

A new national study conducted in the United States and reported in the peer-reviewed journal Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research has revealed a concerning paradox: middle-aged women exhibit the highest levels of problematic alcohol use, yet they are the least informed about alcohol’s link to breast cancer risk.

The survey included approximately 2,200 women aged 18 and older. Participants were asked about their alcohol consumption habits, mental health status, and their awareness of the potential relationship between alcohol use and breast cancer.

The findings showed that middle-aged women in the United States were the most likely to report problematic drinking behaviors, including binge drinking episodes and regularly exceeding recommended alcohol consumption limits.

At the same time, this age group demonstrated the lowest level of awareness that alcohol increases the risk of developing breast cancer.

Researchers emphasize that the relationship between alcohol and breast cancer is dose-dependent: the more alcohol a person consumes over time, the greater the risk of developing the disease. According to researcher Deepali Rinker of the University of Houston, even moderate alcohol consumption can increase cancer risk when accumulated over the years.

A “standard drink” is generally defined as approximately 150 milliliters of wine, a 350-milliliter can of beer, or about 45 milliliters of distilled spirits.

Scientists note that alcohol consumption among middle-aged and older women in the United States has increased in recent years, including a rise in episodes of excessive drinking. Possible contributing factors include chronic stress, caregiving responsibilities, workplace pressures, and the growing normalization of so-called “wine culture.”

The authors of the study argue that breast cancer prevention strategies should include not only screening programs and assessment of family history but also more effective education about alcohol-related risks, tailored to women of different age groups.

The researchers also caution that the findings should still be considered preliminary, as they were presented at a scientific conference and have not yet undergone final peer review and publication in full form.

Follow NEWS.am Medicine on Facebook and Twitter.

Print | Armenian

Follow NEWS.am Medicine on Facebook and Twitter


 
  • Video
 
 
  • Event calendar
 
 
  • Archive