Scientists explain whether white or red wine has 'worse' cancer risk

A new study has suggested that one type of wine could be worse for your health than the other, although no amount of alcohol is thought to be 'safe'

Wine enthusiasts, prepare for some unwelcome news. A new study has revealed a concerning link between the consumption of a particular type and an increased risk of skin cancer.

The research, spearheaded by Brown University, analysed results from 42 observational studies encompassing nearly 96,000 individuals – all to address one question. Is red wine a healthier option than white when considering cancer risk?

This inquiry follows longstanding commendations for moderate red wine drinking, with some of the world's longest-living individuals enjoying the 'benefits' of one to two glasses daily. Such advantages are often ascribed to 'resveratrol', a compound that may provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

The US-based team conducted an extensive statistical review of previous wine investigations to investigate these supposed benefits. Their findings revealed no overall increase in cancer risk when examining data across regular red and white consumption.

Yet, when narrowing their analyses, they found that regular consumption of white wine was linked to a '22% increased risk of skin cancer' compared to red wine. Associate professor Eunyoung Cho, who co-led the study, explained: "We conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis to assess whether red wine is truly a healthier choice than white wine.

"Our analysis included as many published epidemiological studies as possible that separately explored the relationship between red and white wine consumption and cancer risk.

"The results revealed no significant difference in cancer risk between red and white wine overall. However, we did observe a distinction when it came to skin cancer risk. Specifically, the consumption of white wine, but not red wine, was associated with an increased risk of skin cancer."

When examining sex as a risk factor, scientists also found that white wine intake was specifically correlated with an increased cancer risk in women. The cause behind this is unclear, but researchers suspect it could be connected to other high-risk behaviours prevalent among heavy drinkers.

Researchers highlighted insufficient sunscreen application and frequent use of indoor tanning beds as potential correlating factors, yet they emphasised the need for more research to investigate these relationships thoroughly.

Despite red wine's potential benefits, it is also essential to consider that regular, heavy alcohol consumption - regardless of your drink of choice - can pose several long-term dangers.

NHS England asserts that millions are hospitalised with conditions such as liver disease, heart issues and strokes, which can all be exacerbated by chronic alcohol abuse.

In line with UK drinking guidelines, it is advised to limit alcohol consumption to 14 'units' per week, which should be distributed over at least three days. This equates to roughly six 175ml glasses of wine or six pints of beer with 4% alcohol content.

Helen Bell, a nutritionist at Help & Advice, previously told the Mirror: "Exceeding these limits can lead to a host of health issues, including liver disease, increased risk of cancer, and cardiovascular problems.

"I've had cases where individuals believed they were drinking moderately, only to realise their consumption was higher than recommended, leading to adverse health effects. I always recommend keeping track of your alcohol intake by knowing what constitutes a unit of alcohol. For example, a standard glass of wine (175ml) is about two units.

"Spreading your consumption over the week and including several alcohol-free days can help keep your intake within healthy limits."