Which of the following is a known cause of bowel cancer?

Alcohol consumption is considered a known contributing factor to the development of bowel cancer. Research has demonstrated a link between high levels of alcohol intake and increased risk of various types of cancer, including colorectal cancer. The risk is thought to be dose-dependent; this means that the more alcohol a person consumes regularly, the greater the risk of developing the disease. Alcohol can lead to changes in the gut microbiome, cause direct damage to the intestinal lining, and affect the body's ability to absorb certain nutrients that may play protective roles against cancer.

While other factors, such as high fiber diets and regular exercise, have been shown to be protective against bowel cancer, excessive alcohol use is associated with a variety of health risks, including the potential development of cancerous cells in the bowel. Therefore, understanding these associations is crucial for preventative measures in health and nutrition.