Alcohol and Cancer Risk
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Abstract
Alcohol use is very common—in 2019-2020, 72% of U.S. adults reported they consumed one or more drinks per week,3 but less than half of U.S. adults are aware of the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer risk.4 The direct link between alcohol use and cancer was first established in the late 1980s, and evidence for this link has strengthened over time.5-7 This body of scientific evidence demonstrates a causal relationship between alcohol use and increased risk for at least seven different types of cancer, including breast (in women), colorectum, esophagus, liver, mouth (oral cavity), throat (pharynx), and voice box (larynx).6,7 The more alcohol consumed, the greater the risk of cancer.6,8-11 For certain cancers, like breast, mouth, and throat cancers, evidence shows that this risk may start to increase around one or fewer drinks per day.6,8-10 This Advisory describes the scientific evidence for the causal link between alcohol consumption and increased cancer risk. It also helps to better inform the public of this relationship and offers key recommendations to reduce alcohol-related cancers.