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Rear view of a woman customer looking at a rack of wine in supermarket
In January 2025, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory highlighting the link between alcohol consumption and cancer risk, citing that approximately 100,000 cancer diagnoses per year are alcohol-related. Rajesh Thirumaran, MD, a Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic medical oncologist, breaks down the advisory and discusses the implications for cancer risk.
Alcohol consumption has been shown to increase the risk of cancer, primarily by altering DNA and hormone levels. This correlation affects multiple types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, esophageal, liver, mouth and throat.
“For some cancers, like breast, the risk can increase with as little as one drink per day,” Dr. Thirumaran adds. “Consuming three or more drinks per day can significantly increase the risk of esophageal, liver and colorectal cancers.”
The Surgeon General’s advisory suggests that one potential step toward alcohol-related cancer prevention is updating the health warnings on alcoholic beverages.
“Explicit labeling or warning can increase consumer awareness,” Dr. Thirumaran explains. “Updated health labels can support broader public health efforts by reinforcing messages around moderation, safe drinking practices and the importance of reducing alcohol consumption to lower cancer risks.”
While other lifestyle factors, including smoking, diet, and exercise, also influence cancer risk, alcohol stands out due to its dose-dependent effect—meaning the more alcohol consumed, the higher the risk.
“While high-alcohol consumption can be a major contributor to many cancers, its carcinogenic effect is generally less pronounced than smoking,” Dr. Thirumaran describes. “Smoking remains one of the most significant risk factors, especially for lung cancer.”
For more information about oncology services at Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic, or to schedule an appointment with a cancer care specialist, visit www.trinityhealthma.org/cancer-care.
Diet and exercise also play key roles. Certain foods, such as processed meats, can increase cancer risk, while a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help lower it.
“Exercise is one of the most important factors in reducing cancer risk,” Dr. Thirumaran emphasizes.
This advisory, along with similar guidance from organizations like the American Cancer Society, reinforces the risks associated with alcohol and cancer.
“While drinking is a personal choice, its role in cancer development is undeniable, understanding the risks is crucial for public health.” – Rajesh Thirumaran, MD
“The Surgeon General highlights that no level of alcohol consumption is entirely risk-free,” Dr. Thirumaran adds. “Health organizations increasingly emphasize reducing alcohol consumption as a preventive measure, alongside quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight.”
Ultimately, the recent advisory continues to tell us that we should take a more cautious approach towards alcohol consumption.
“While drinking is a personal choice, its role in cancer development is undeniable,” Dr. Thirumaran explains. “Understanding the risks is crucial for public health.”