Alcohol increases cancer risk, warns U.S. Surgeon General

A recent report from the U.S. Surgeon General identifies alcohol as the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the U.S., following tobacco and obesity. However, many Americans remain unaware of the link between alcohol consumption and cancer risk. Research shows that alcohol is a known carcinogen, with any amount potentially increasing cancer risk. The American Association for Cancer Research recommends limiting alcohol intake to reduce this risk, defining moderate drinking as up to one drink per day for women and two for men. Alcohol can damage DNA and deplete essential nutrients needed for repair, contributing to various cancers, including breast and liver cancer. Reducing or stopping alcohol consumption can lower the risk of all cancers by 4% and alcohol-related cancers by 8%.