​Regular drinking of alcoholic beverages may facilitate the development of melanoma, particularly in areas of the body protected from ultraviolet rays.

This study evaluated the consumption of alcohol in relation to the subsequent occurrence of melanoma. Researchers systematically reviewed data extracted from 3 large prospective cohort studies that examined alcohol use as a risk factor for the development of melanoma.

Compared to non-drinkers, researchers observed that alcohol consumers had high risk of developing melanoma, especially in parts of the body that are not exposed to ultraviolet light such as the chest and abdomen. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that habitual intake of alcohol may up an individual's odds of having melanoma.