The recent advisory from Surgeon General Vivek Murthy that drinking alcohol raises the risk of cancer has sparked debate among experts and the public. Dr. Rachael Bedard, a physician, argues that while the advisory relies on decades of research and epidemiologic studies, it oversimplifies the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer.
The advisory highlights various statistics, including 100,000 new cases of cancer potentially related to alcohol consumption annually, and a 2.5-percentage-point increase in risk for women and a 1.5-percentage-point increase for men. However, translating these statistics into practical advice is challenging, as they do not provide clear guidance on individual drinking habits.
Bedard emphasizes that the medical community has theories about how alcohol causes cancer, but the advisory’s recommendations are primarily policy-driven. The report suggests changing alcohol labeling to highlight cancer risk and proposes other measures to encourage responsible drinking practices.
Despite mixed reactions from experts and individuals, Bedard notes that some people have reported a decrease in drinking habits after discussing the advisory with loved ones. She acknowledges that individual priorities and values play a significant role in decision-making about drinking habits.
Ultimately, Bedard argues that the advisory should be viewed as information, not a prescription, allowing individuals to make informed decisions based on their own circumstances.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/13/opinion/alcohol-cancer.html