Growing Awareness: Alcohol and Cancer Risk Backed by U.S. Surgeon General

More than half of U.S. adults now recognise a clear link between alcohol consumption and cancer risk, following a high-profile advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General earlier this year.

According to new data from the Annenberg Public Policy Center, awareness jumped from 40% to 56% in just a few months, prompted by warnings that alcohol increases the risk of at least seven types of cancer, including breast, liver, and colorectal cancer.

The survey also revealed that nearly 1 in 3 people would now be less likely to accept an alcoholic drink in social settings, highlighting the real-world behavioural impact of effective public health messaging.

While various reports on alcohol and health have emerged in recent months, the Surgeon General’s advisory had the most reach and impact, showing how science-backed communication from trusted health authorities can influence public perception and potentially patient choices.

Source: Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania. "Awareness grows of cancer risk from alcohol consumption." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 1 April 2025. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250401131053.htm>