For years, red wine has been considered a “healthier” alcoholic choice due to its high resveratrol content—an antioxidant with potential anti-inflammatory and cancer-protective properties. However, a groundbreaking study from Brown University’s School of Public Health suggests otherwise.
Red vs. White Wine: The Cancer Risk Debate
Researchers analyzed 42 observational studies involving nearly 96,000 participants to compare the cancer risks associated with red and white wine consumption. The results? No clear evidence that red wine reduces cancer risk.
“We conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis to determine whether red wine truly offers a protective effect compared to white wine,” said Eunyoung Cho, associate professor of epidemiology and dermatology at Brown. “The results revealed no significant difference in overall cancer risk between red and white wine.”
White Wine and Skin Cancer: A Surprising Link
While neither red nor white wine significantly impacted overall cancer risk, researchers discovered a surprising distinction—white wine consumption was linked to a 22% increased risk of skin cancer. The reasons behind this remain unclear, though some speculate that lifestyle factors such as sun exposure and indoor tanning habits may play a role.
The study also found a stronger association between white wine intake and increased cancer risk among women, suggesting a need for further research into the underlying mechanisms.
Alcohol and Cancer: What You Need to Know
Alcohol—specifically, the ethanol found in all alcoholic beverages—metabolises into compounds that damage DNA and proteins, increasing cancer risk. According to global health data, excessive alcohol consumption was linked to over 740,000 cancer cases worldwide in 2020, accounting for 4.1% of all cases.
The Takeaway: Should You Rethink Your Wine Choice?
This study challenges the long-held belief that red wine is a healthier alcoholic option. While neither red nor white wine appears to significantly increase cancer risk overall, the findings highlight a potential concern with white wine and skin cancer—particularly for women.
If you choose to drink, moderation remains key. And as research continues, it’s clear that the healthiest choice is always an informed one.
