Final answer:
The risk of esophageal cancer is significantly increased by high alcohol consumption, and it's recommended that alcohol intake be limited to reduce this risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
The risk of cancer of the esophagus increases greatly with high alcohol consumption. Alcohol consumption has been linked with an increased risk of several types of cancers, including those affecting the mouth, pharynx (throat), larynx (voice box), liver, breast, colon, and rectum. It is advisable for individuals who drink alcohol to limit their intake to no more than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women. A standard drink is generally considered to be 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1 and a half ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits (hard liquor). Moreover, smoking also significantly increases the risk of cancer, not only of the lungs but also the larynx, esophagus, stomach, bladder, and several other organs.