One of the most common causes of human cancer is alcohol consumption. There has been evidence that shows drinking increases the risk of cancer in the mouth and throat, larynx, colon, liver, female breast, and especially the esophagus. However, much of the existing data is collected from Western countries. This literature review aims to evaluate the interaction between genetic influences, behaviors, and environments for the development of cancer through the consumption of alcohol in East Asian individuals. The targeted population was selected specifically for their unique facial flushing reaction after consuming alcohol. Alcohol flushing is an allergic response triggered mainly by the inactive aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH2) genotype. Study participants range from adults in East Asian countries (China, Japan, and Korea) to college students with East Asian ethnicities in the United States. While previous research has suggested the association between ALDH2 inactive gene flushing response and alcohol-associated cancers, Asian flushers are more at risk due to social, psychological, and cultural influences on drinking behavior.

Authors:
Hoang Le, New York University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Hoang is a Psychology Master's student at New York University. He is interested in researching the intersection of East Asian cultural values and mental health. Hoang's career goal is to improve the mental health state of his home country, Viet Nam.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hoang-le-88b200173/

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