Recently, Professor Li Liming and his team, PKU School of Public Health (PKUSPH), have published their findings in the International Journal of Cancer with the title “Association of Low-Activity ALDH2 and Alcohol Consumption with Risk of Esophageal Cancer in Chinese Adults: A Population-Based Cohort Study”. That was the latest development in the “Prospective Research in China’s Chronic Disease”. After analyzing the data from the last ten years, the study found that excessive consumption of alcohol would increase the risk of esophageal cancer (EC) for individuals with low-activity ALDH2.

　　According to the co-corresponding author, Professor Lv Jun from PKUSPH, in China, the mortality of EC is quite high and EC is one of the menacing cancers, especially for males. Alcohol drinking is one of the dangerous factors for EC. Aldehyde is one of the metabolites in human body, and ALDH2 is especially responsible for removing it. The low activity of ALDH2 will result in the accumulation of aldehyde, which will harm the body severely. And it is the coding genes of ALDH2 that causes its low activity.

　　The study proved that the fundamental measure to prevent EC was avoiding excessive alcohol consumptions. Especially for those with ALDH2 gene defects, experts advise an enhanced health education and an early screening for EC. Although the response of flushing after drinking can conveniently determine ALDH2 gene defects, for long-term consumers of alcohol without such a response, gene testing can be suggested. And more importantly, never indulge in drinking.

　　Written by: Lang Lang

　　Edited by: Liu Xin

　　Source: Office of Publicity