The A to Z of women's health issues

A is for: alcohol

A little alcohol can help protect your heart after the menopause, but too much can be dangerous, and one in five women are exceeding the weekly limit of 14 units. We know alcohol slightly increases breast cancer risk and heavy drinking may also increase your osteoporosis risk. Research shows women are more vulnerable to the effects of alcohol than men, so they're more prone to serious problems such as liver disease and alcohol-induced brain damage.