A 2013 study published in the International Journal of Cancer raises concerns about alcohol’s ability to throw off prostate cancer tests. The investigators found a modestly higher risk of prostate cancer among heavy drinkers; they also observed evidence of lower PSA levels associated with increasing consumption of alcohol. This means it can be more difficult to detect prostate cancer using PSA levels among men who are heavy drinkers.
In an older study of Harvard alumni, researchers concluded wine or beer consumption was unassociated with prostate cancer; however, moderate liquor consumption was associated with a significant 61-67 percent increased risk of prostate cancer.