U.S. Surgeon General Calls for Cancer Warnings on Alcohol Labels After January 3 Advisory

Jan 10, 2025, 05:00 PM

The U.S. Surgeon General has issued an advisory highlighting the link between alcohol consumption and an increased risk of cancer, recommending that alcohol beverage labels be updated to include cancer warnings. This advisory, released on January 3, underscores that alcohol is the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States. It suggests revising the existing 'Government Warning' statement on alcohol products, which currently focuses on risks to pregnant women and driving impairment, to also warn about the cancer risk. The advisory has sparked discussions on public health and potential regulatory changes, with experts emphasizing the health benefits of reducing alcohol intake, including improved sleep, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of various cancers.