Dry February encourages people to drink less, reduce cancer risk

Nearly 14,000 Canadians are going alcohol-free this month as part of Dry February, and one expert says taking part could help reduce your risk of developing cancer.

Susan Flynn, director of cancer prevention programs for the Canadian Cancer Society, says consuming alcohol heightens people’s risk of developing at least nine different cancers, including head and neck, breast, esophageal, stomach, pancreatic, colorectal, and liver.

“Scientific studies have shown that limiting alcohol to recommended levels will reduce your cancer risk,” she said.

She adds wine, beer and spirits all have the same effect, and one is no different from the other.

The nationwide fundraiser is now entering its ninth year, and Flynn says it’s easy for anyone interested to take part.

“You got to dryfeb.ca and use the tools there sign up, make a fundraising goal, and then there’s lots of opportunities to post on your social media or email your friends and family to ask them to help support your Dry Feb,” she said.

Flynn says people’s “Dry Feb” donations can go a long way.

“The funds support … cancer research and also programs and support services that are offered for free to people who are affected by cancer,” she said.

Jennifer Gillis at the Canadian Cancer Society says over the last eight years, Dry Feb has raised over $10 million.

“Last year alone, I believe the estimate was about $3.8 million were raised. And so, ultimately, we really hope to go above and beyond that this year,” she told CityNews.

More than 20,000 people on more than 600 teams have already committed to “going dry” this year, Gillis says.

More information about Dry Feb and the organization can be found on the Canadian Cancer Society’s website.

-With files from Charlie Carey