Advisory from US surgeon general says alcohol contributes to 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 cancer deaths each year

Summary

Alcohol is the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the US, contributing to 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 deaths annually, according to a new US surgeon general advisory.

Breast cancer accounts for 16.4% of annual alcohol-related cancers, with alcohol increasing the risk of at least seven types, including liver, colorectal, and throat cancers.

Most deaths occur among heavy drinkers, though 17% occur within recommended limits.

Alcohol promotes cancer through DNA damage, inflammation, and hormone changes. Despite clear links, only 45% of Americans recognize alcohol as a cancer risk.

  • rhabarba
    4•4 days ago

    Ah, that’s right - bourbon! I (arrogant Scotch snob) always forget that. Ironic coincidence: WhiskyJason tried to get me interested in New Riff at a whisky fair. It worked: I’ll get a bottle in the post tomorrow. It’s pretty nice stuff.

    • @[email protected]
      4•4 days ago

      I haven’t tried New Riff but I’ve really come to like bourbon, especially its much more rounded body and the spiciness of ryed bourbons that no scotch can touch. I see New Riff is heavy on rye so I’ll pick up a bottle if I find one.

      • rhabarba
        3•4 days ago

        I’ve had quite a few spicy Scotches in the past. I’ll try to compare the New Riff during our next monthly whisky tasting round, assuming we’ll have a few ryed ones. We usually do. :-)