Alcohol is probably the main factor responsible for increased risk of head and neck cancer recorded in various countries, particularly in central and east Europe.

Total avoidance of alcohol, although optimum for cancer control, cannot be recommended in terms of a broad perspective of public health.

The most recent version of the European code against cancer recommends keeping daily consumption to two drinks for men and one for women.

Given the linear dose-response relation between alcohol intake and risk of cancer, control of heavy drinking remains the main target for cancer control.

Total avoidance of alcohol, although optimum for cancer control, cannot be recommended in terms of broad perspective of public health, in particular in countries with high incidence of cardiovascular disease.