Red wine or white: Which one is worse for cancer risk?

White wine contains higher levels of acetaldehyde compared to red wine. (Image: Canva)

Many of us enjoy a glass of wine without a second thought, assuming that a small drink is harmless. But what if that assumption is wrong? Research now suggests that even moderate alcohol consumption could raise the risk of life-threatening diseases, including cancer. But does the type of wine matter? Is red wine truly a healthier choice than white when it comes to cancer risk? Let’s explore the science behind it.

What the research says

A team of researchers from Brown University's School of Public Health analysed data from 42 observational studies involving nearly 96,000 participants to determine whether red and white wine have different effects on cancer risk.

The study, published in the journal Nutrients, was led by Dr Eunyoung Cho, an Associate Professor of Epidemiology and Dermatology at Brown University. “We conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis to assess whether red wine is truly a healthier choice than white wine,” Dr Cho explained.

By reviewing as many epidemiological studies as possible, the researchers examined whether the type of wine consumed influenced cancer risk. Their conclusion? There was no major difference between red and white wine in terms of overall cancer risk. However, when it came to skin cancer, white wine stood out—it was associated with a higher risk, while red wine was not.

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Why Is white wine more harmful than red?

The study found that drinking white wine was linked to a 22 percent higher risk of skin cancer compared to red wine. But why?

One possibility is that frequent wine drinkers may also have higher exposure to UV radiation—through habits like tanning or prolonged sun exposure—which could increase skin cancer risk.

Another theory is linked to wine's chemical composition. Both red and white wine contain ethanol, which the body metabolises into acetaldehyde—a toxic compound associated with cancer. However, red wine has higher levels of polyphenols, particularly resveratrol, which has been studied for its potential anti-cancer properties. These compounds may offer some protective effects that white wine lacks.

Additionally, research published in Food Science and Biotechnology in 2019 suggests that white wine contains higher levels of acetaldehyde compared to red wine. This could be due to differences in fermentation and aging processes, making white wine more carcinogenic in comparison.

Does gender affect alcohol-related cancer risk?

Biological differences may also play a role in how alcohol affects men and women. Studies suggest that women may be more vulnerable to alcohol-related health risks due to how their bodies process alcohol and the influence of hormones.

For example, research in Alcohol Research & Health in 1999 found that women experience greater cognitive impairment from alcohol consumption compared to men, particularly in tasks involving memory and attention.

Another study, published in the International Journal of Epidemiology in 2015, highlights that alcohol consumption can increase estrogen levels, which is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. However, this risk is not specific to wine—it applies to all types of alcoholic beverages.

Also Read | How much is too much? Here's what women should know about alcohol and liver health

While the study did not provide definitive proof that red wine lowers cancer risk, it challenges the widely held belief that red wine is inherently healthier than white wine. Both types contain ethanol, a known carcinogen, and neither should be considered 'safe' when it comes to cancer prevention.

Researchers advise moderation, and if you're concerned about cancer risk, limiting alcohol consumption altogether may be the best approach.