Alcohol and Cancer
Aspirus Health Raises Awareness of the Risks During Alcohol Awareness Month
4/3/2025
Dr. Andrew Huang, Aspirus Radiation Oncologist
New warning labels
mandated by the government may soon appear on alcohol products, alerting
consumers to serious health risks, including cancer. Similar to cigarette
warnings, these labels aim to educate the public about alcohol’s dangers. Yet,
despite extensive research, many people remain unaware of alcohol’s link to
cancer.
The
U.S. Surgeon General’s January 2025 advisory identifies alcohol as the
third leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States, contributing to
approximately 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 cancer-related deaths each year.
Aspirus Health is working to increase awareness of these risks and encourage
informed choices about alcohol consumption.
“Any time the
American public is consuming a product that can cause cancer, I think it is
important for us to know,” says Andrew
Huang, MD, a Radiation Oncologist with Aspirus Health.
Alcohol is a known
carcinogen, and research shows it increases the risk of several cancers,
including those of the mouth, throat, liver, and breast. But its impact goes
beyond cancer. Long-term alcohol use can lead to organ damage and contribute to
chronic diseases of the liver and heart.
For years, some
studies suggested that moderate drinking had health benefits, but newer
research has debunked that idea. Dr. Huang explains that earlier studies failed
to account for people who avoided alcohol due to preexisting health conditions.
“Once those individuals were removed from the data, the reality became clear:
there is no protective effect of alcohol. Even small amounts increase the risk
of death,” he says.
Avoiding alcohol
completely is the safest choice, but moderation is key for those who choose to
drink. Excessive or habitual alcohol use can harm both physical and mental
health. “It is not just about the physical effects,” Dr. Huang says. “Alcohol
can impact relationships, mental health, and overall well-being.”
Aspirus Health
encourages individuals to have open conversations with their primary care
provider about alcohol use. Honest discussions help assess personal risk
factors, explore healthier alternatives, and provide resources for those
looking to cut back. Regular checkups offer an opportunity to take control of
long-term health.
To find a provider
in your area, visit https://www.aspirus.org/find-a-provider.
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