U.S. Surgeon General Calls for Cancer Warning on Alcohol: "There is No Safe Level"
The Risk of Cancer with Moderate Drinking
Having a glass of wine a day has been often touted as a healthy choice for your heart. While there are warnings against using other substances like cigarettes, alcohol in moderation is typically considered fine — but that may be changing.
The New Advisory
The U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s newest Advisory suggests that even small amounts of alcohol could be harmful and may increase your risk of developing cancer.
The Link between Cancer and Alcohol
Alcohol is a well-established, preventable cause of cancer responsible for about 100,000 cases of cancer and 20,000 cancer deaths annually in the United States. The Surgeon General’s Advisory points to studies that have found a clear link between alcohol consumption and a higher risk of developing seven types of cancers, including breast cancer.
No Safe Level of Consumption
"We now know that there is no safe level for alcohol consumption, and that alcohol is a known carcinogen," says Dr. Faiz Bhora, a professor of surgery and regional chair of surgery at Hackensack Meridian Health and Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine.
The Mechanism of Cellular Damage
"Its mechanism of cellular damage has been well established. It causes oxidative stress and impairs DNA repair, amongst other mechanisms that lead to cell cycle dysregulation and cancer formation," Bhora explains.
Warning Labels and Social Pressure
The Surgeon General is calling for manufacturers of alcoholic beverages like beer and spirits to update warning labels to include cancer risk. Currently, beverages containing alcohol mainly warn against consumption by pregnant people and driving under the influence.
The Impact on the Industry
Shares of alcohol manufacturers including Molson-Coors and Anheuser-Busch initially dipped more than 1% following the advisory.
Challenging Previous Claims
Even prior claims that there are positive effects of having a glass of red wine a day are in question. Previous studies that have shown a small amount of alcohol daily can lower risk of cardiovascular disease are being called out for their methodology, according to The New York Times.
Conclusion
The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory suggests that even small amounts of alcohol could be harmful and may increase your risk of developing cancer. It’s essential to be aware of the risks and consider alternative ways to reduce stress and interact socially.
FAQs
Q: What is the new advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General?
A: The advisory suggests that even small amounts of alcohol could be harmful and may increase your risk of developing cancer.
Q: What is the link between cancer and alcohol?
A: The link is clear, with studies showing a higher risk of developing seven types of cancers, including breast cancer.
Q: Is there a safe level of alcohol consumption?
A: No, the Surgeon General’s Advisory suggests that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.
Q: What is the mechanism of cellular damage caused by alcohol?
A: It causes oxidative stress and impairs DNA repair, amongst other mechanisms that lead to cell cycle dysregulation and cancer formation.
Q: What does the Surgeon General recommend for warning labels?
A: The Surgeon General is calling for manufacturers of alcoholic beverages to update warning labels to include cancer risk.
