NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Washington, D.C., January 3, 2024: U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has issued a new advisory highlighting the direct link between alcohol consumption and cancer, aiming to raise awareness of its dangers. Alcohol is now recognized as the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States, following tobacco and obesity. Despite decades of scientific evidence, fewer than half of Americans are aware of this connection, according to the advisory.
The advisory underscores that alcohol consumption increases the risk of at least seven types of cancer, including cancers of the breast, colorectum, esophagus, liver, mouth, throat, and voice box. The Surgeon General is calling for updates to the health warning labels on alcoholic beverages to include cancer risks and is recommending public health campaigns to educate Americans about the dangers of alcohol-related cancers.
“Alcohol is a well-established, preventable cause of cancer responsible for about 100,000 cases and 20,000 deaths annually in the United States,” Dr. Murthy said. “This Advisory lays out steps we can all take to increase awareness of alcohol’s cancer risk and minimize harm.”
The Surgeon General’s Advisory reveals that alcohol consumption plays a role in 16.4% of breast cancer cases and contributes significantly to cancers of the mouth, throat, and voice box. Alarmingly, even low levels of consumption – around one drink per day – can increase cancer risk.
Dr. Murthy emphasized that alcohol-related cancer risks are influenced by a range of factors, including biological, environmental, social, and economic conditions. However, he stressed that individuals can reduce their risk by being mindful of their drinking habits.
The advisory outlines several steps to address the issue, including:
- Updating warning labels on alcoholic beverages to include information about cancer risks.
- Reassessing alcohol consumption guidelines to account for its carcinogenic properties.
- Educational campaigns led by public health organizations and community groups to inform the public.
- Clinical interventions, such as health care providers discussing alcohol-related cancer risks with patients and offering screening and treatment referrals.
Public health professionals are encouraged to prioritize alcohol as a modifiable risk factor and incorporate this information into broader cancer prevention efforts.
This latest advisory adds to a series of public health warnings issued by Dr. Murthy, addressing topics such as mental health, firearm violence, and workplace well-being. Surgeon General’s Advisories are reserved for pressing health challenges that demand immediate national attention and action.
