MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) --- April is Alcohol Awareness Month and doctors are sharing a warning about the link to cancer risk.
Recent health reports found that breast cancer risk increases for those who regularly consume alcoholic beverages.
"Breast cancer is the second most leading cause of death in women and so there has been a lot of research to look into alcohol in general risks of breast cancer," said Dr. Hanadi BuAli, Surgical Breast Oncologist at Ascension Wisconsin.
In women, the risk of breast cancer is increased by 13%, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The reason for this is because alcohol can cause an increase in hormone levels and estrogen plays a role in breast cancer development.
Experts say you can lower your risk by making lifestyle changes. Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, and lowering alcohol consumption.
"Drinking once in a blue moon and social events is fine, but if you are a regular drinker you need to be aware of how much alcohol you consume," said Dr. BuAli.
Breast cancer screenings are also recommended at age 40. Ascension Wisconsin also does alcohol screenings for patients to get a closer look at an individual's health impacts. After learning the risks, 40% of patients reported drinking less in follow-up assessments.