The U.S. Surgeon General has suggested that warning labels on alcoholic drinks be enhanced, much like those on cigarette packs, to indicate the potential cancer risks, as stated in a recent health advisory released on Friday.

According to Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s report, alcohol consumption leads to “nearly 100,000 cancer cases and approximately 20,000 cancer-related deaths each year” in the U.S.

The advisory identifies alcohol as “the third largest preventable cause of cancer, following tobacco use and obesity.”

Since 1988, alcoholic beverages have included warning labels addressing the dangers of drinking while pregnant as well as risks associated with driving and operating machinery. The proposed new labels would be more explicit and similar to cigarette warning labels.

The Surgeon General believes that such labels can influence consumer behavior. Nonetheless, any new warning labels would require approval from Congress.

Seven Types of Cancer Associated with Alcohol Use

The advisory notes that the type of alcohol does not matter; research indicates a strong link between alcohol consumption and cancer for all varieties of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits.

However, more studies are needed to understand how different drinking habits, such as binge or regular drinking, may impact cancer risks.

Furthermore, additional research is necessary to assess the cancer risks related to other organs, which include:

• Skin
• Prostate
• Pancreas
• Stomach

Alcohol’s Connection to Liver Damage

Heavy alcohol consumption can lead to liver diseases. The Mayo Clinic lists symptoms of liver damage as a swollen abdomen, swollen legs, chronic fatigue, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Ceasing alcohol intake can help reduce liver damage. Here’s how alcohol impacts liver health:

Trends in Heavy Drinking Across Generations

The quantity of alcohol consumed over time is a significant factor in cancer risk, according to the advisory. A higher intake correlates with an increased risk of cancer.

The advisory also highlights the need for further research regarding drinking during certain age groups or developmental stages, particularly during adolescence and elder years, to determine how these factors may affect cancer risk.

The guidelines for alcohol consumption might need to be reviewed to reflect cancer risk factors more accurately. It’s essential for individuals to understand the link between alcohol consumption and elevated cancer risk when making decisions about drinking.