A new study reveals a sharp rise in alcohol-related cancer deaths in the United States. The number of such deaths nearly doubled from 12,000 in 1990 to over 23,000 in 2021. Researchers will present these findings at the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s annual meeting in Chicago.
Alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. It is linked to at least six types of cancer, including cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, colon, and breast. Even moderate drinking increases the risk, challenging the belief that light alcohol use is safe.
Despite clear evidence, public awareness remains low. A 2024 report from the American Association for Cancer Research found that while alcohol is linked to over 5% of all cancer cases, 51% of Americans do not know about this connection.
Men aged 55 and older face the highest risk. While alcohol-related cancer deaths among women increased by just 8% between 1990 and 2021, deaths among men rose by 56%. Experts say men tend to start drinking earlier, which may lead to greater long-term effects.
Dr. Chinmay Jani, lead author and oncology expert at the University of Miami, explained that alcohol’s cancer-causing effects accumulate over time with continued consumption. He called for stronger warning labels on alcoholic drinks and better public education to raise awareness among both the public and medical professionals.
“People know about tobacco and cancer, but alcohol’s risks are often overlooked,” Jani said.
Separately, Cancer Research UK found that melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, often appears in different body areas for men and women, likely due to sun exposure and clothing habits. For men, 40% of melanomas are on the torso, while for women, more than a third appear on the lower limbs.
This study highlights the urgent need for increased awareness of cancer risks linked to alcohol and better prevention efforts.
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