Top US Doctor Urges Cancer Warnings on Alcohol: Health Risks and Safety Concerns

Cancer Warnings on Alcohol

US Surgeon General Calls for Cancer Warnings on Alcohol, Cites New Research Link

The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, is urging for alcohol labels to carry cancer risk warnings, similar to those on cigarette packaging. This call comes after recent studies found a strong connection between alcohol consumption and seven types of cancer.

Dr. Murthy highlighted that the majority of Americans remain unaware of these cancer risks, which contribute to approximately 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 deaths annually in the U.S. He emphasized that alcohol is the third leading preventable cause of cancer, behind tobacco and obesity. In his statement, he noted that alcohol consumption—whether in the form of beer, wine, or spirits—has been linked to cancers of the breast, liver, mouth, throat, esophagus, larynx, and colon.

Current alcohol warnings, which haven’t been updated since 1988, only mention the dangers of drinking during pregnancy and the impairment risks related to driving and operating machinery. To change these labels, however, an act of Congress would be required.

Dr. Murthy has also called for a reassessment of alcohol consumption guidelines and more robust public health campaigns aimed at educating Americans about the cancer risks associated with drinking. His report recommends that healthcare providers screen for alcohol-related issues and refer patients for treatment as necessary.

Following the Surgeon General’s announcement, shares of major U.S. alcohol companies, including Diageo, saw declines of up to 4%.