Researchers have identified several mechanisms associated with alcohol and cancer development. A 2025 report from the US surgeon general highlights four distinct ways alcohol can cause cancer: alcohol metabolism, oxidative stress and inflammation, alterations in hormone levels, and interactions with other carcinogens such as tobacco smoke.

https://www.umassmed.edu/news/news-archives/2025/04/umass-chan-cancer-biologist-explains-the-cancer-risk-associated-with-consuming-alcohol/