Surgeon General Warns of Alcohol’s Role in Cancer Risks

On January 3, 2025, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy in an advisory, called attention to the often-overlooked connection between alcohol consumption and cancer. Citing alcohol as the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States after tobacco use and obesity. The advisory emphasized that alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for at least seven types of cancer. These include cancers of the mouth, throat, voice box, esophagus, breast, liver, and colon.

One of the most alarming revelations in the advisory is the lack of awareness among Americans about alcohol’s cancer risks. According to a survey cited in the announcement, fewer than half of U.S. adults recognize alcohol as a potential cancer-causing agent. This stands in stark contrast to the broader public understanding of other risk factors, such as smoking.

Dr. Murthy indicated the urgency of bridging this knowledge gap. “The data is clear: alcohol is not a benign substance, we must equip the public with the information they need to make informed choices,” he stated

To address this issue, Dr. Murthy proposed updating the federally mandated warning labels on alcoholic beverages. Current labels, unchanged since 1988, focus on risks like impaired driving and pregnancy complications. The Surgeon General is advocating for labels that explicitly detail the link between alcohol and cancer.

This advisory marks a significant step in reshaping how alcohol is perceived and regulated in the United States. By advocating for clearer labeling and stricter consumption guidelines, the Surgeon General seeks to combat misinformation and foster a more informed public.

“Alcohol-related cancer risks should no longer remain a hidden truth, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that Americans understand the full impact of their choices,” Dr. Murthy concluded.