Alcohol is one of many substances that can cause cancer
January 23, 2025
The U.S. Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy, issued a report last week that confirmed that alcohol is responsible for some cases of cancer, and recommended stricter warning labels. Here’s an April, 2024 post on the link of alcohol to premature death.
Murthy states that alcohol is associated with almost 100,000 preventable cases of cancer and 20,000 preventable deaths from cancer annually. He points to evidence that alcohol is responsible for an increased risk of breast, colorectal, esophageal, liver, oral, throat, and laryngeal cancers, and notes that less than half of Americans are aware of this connection. The increased risk of alcohol use rises with the quantity of alcohol consumed. For instance, the risk of breast cancer in women goes up about 2% with one daily drink and about 4% with two daily alcoholic drinks.
There are many behaviors that increase the risk of cancer, including smoking, breathing polluted air, eating highly processed meat, and sun exposure. There are behaviors that protect against cancer, too. HPV vaccination can prevent cervical cancer, and hepatitis B vaccination can prevent liver cancer. Regular exercise is associated with lower rates of obesity and lower risk of getting cancer.
There are many behaviors that can lower the risk of premature death or disability. This includes not smoking, exercising regularly, getting appropriate treatment for high blood pressure, high cholesterol or obesity, and getting recommended vaccinations. No one should drink excessively, but those who enjoy alcohol in moderation can address their risk of cancer or other diseases through other behavioral approaches.
Implications for employers:
Companies that have functions where alcohol is served can limit the amount offered per participant.
Employers can offer education around the risks of alcohol use.
Review pharmacy formulary to place medications that treat alcohol use disorder at the most affordable tier.
Employers can be sure that their carriers offer adequate treatment options for those members with alcohol use disorder.
Supervisors and managers who believe an employee is drinking too much can refer them to the employee assistance program.
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Tomorrow: Friday Shorts and Follow ups