US surgeon general links alcohol to cancer risk in new advisory
The U.S. surgeon general has issued a new advisory warning the public about the increased risk of alcohol-related cancers. Dr. Vivek Murthy released the guidance on Friday after research linked alcohol consumption to at least seven types of cancer. The advisory highlights that alcohol can elevate the risk of throat, liver, esophageal, mouth, larynx (voice box), colon, and rectal cancers.
Alcohol has been identified as the “third leading preventable cause of cancer” in the United States, with tobacco and obesity occupying the top two spots. Murthy emphasized that alcohol is accountable for approximately 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 cancer-related deaths annually in the country, surpassing the number of alcohol-associated traffic crash fatalities. Despite these alarming statistics, a majority of Americans remain unaware of the cancer risk associated with alcohol consumption.
The advisory outlines four mechanisms through which alcohol can increase cancer risk. Firstly, alcohol breaks down into acetaldehyde, a chemical that damages DNA and raises the likelihood of developing cancer. Secondly, alcohol induces oxidative stress, leading to the deterioration of proteins, DNA, and cells, as well as causing inflammation. Additionally, alcohol alters hormone levels, particularly estrogen, which can heighten the risk of breast cancer. Lastly, cancer creates conditions that facilitate the absorption of alcohol into the body, further exacerbating the risk of developing alcohol-related cancers.
Individual susceptibility to alcohol-related cancers is influenced by a complex interplay of biological, environmental, social, and economic factors. To mitigate this risk, Murthy suggests the implementation of warning labels on alcoholic beverages indicating their potential to increase cancer risk. He also advocates for a reassessment of the guideline limits for alcohol consumption and urges individuals to be mindful of the risk when determining their alcohol intake.
Furthermore, the surgeon general calls for healthcare providers, professionals, and community organizations to educate the public about the connection between alcohol and cancer to enhance awareness of the risk. Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health and Fox News senior medical analyst, commended Murthy’s advisory, emphasizing that alcohol is a proven toxin with direct links to liver, heart, and brain diseases. Siegel cautioned against the misconception that any amount of alcohol is beneficial for health, stressing that no quantity of alcohol is safe for consumption.
Recent studies have shown an increase in alcohol consumption during the pandemic, with 25% of individuals escalating their alcohol use due to stress and social isolation. Siegel emphasized the importance of Murthy’s advisory, noting that it comes at a crucial time. The advisory serves as a reminder for individuals to be mindful of their alcohol consumption and its potential impact on cancer risk.
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