This thread is fascinating to me for a few reasons.

I have never consumed excessive alcohol, even as a teen. Being 36, I couldn't believe the diagnosis especially since I've never smoked.

I would enjoy a glass of wine maybe 5 times a month, and sometimes go 2 or 3 weeks without any.

We live smack-dab in the heart of California's wine country, and in less than a year had to try to become psuedo-wine-affectionados (sp?).

So, I asked every Dr I talked to about the connections, and almost everyone said "bad luck". But, without exception, each said to not smoke or drink in the future to increase survival odds.

Now, I can't stand to even sip a glass of wine, and can't get near a scotch.

The burn and pain, plus the horrible tastes make it impossible.

So, problably for the better anyway, but sometimes I wonder if everyone has the same effect.

I know there are hundreds hit by this disease that are much younger and have even less risk factors, so I don't think we know all the facts yet.