Alcohol: Increase in Cancer Deaths – Who is Most at Risk?

A significant increase in deaths from alcohol-related cancers has been recorded in the United States, according to an analysis presented at the ASCO conference. Deaths nearly doubled from 1990 to 2021.

Cancers of the liver, colon, and esophagus are most strongly linked to alcohol consumption. In 2021, 7,500 deaths were due to liver cancer, 4,700 to colon cancer, and 3,900 to esophageal cancer.

Men over 55 years of age have a higher mortality rate. The increase in men reached 70%, and an increase is also observed in women.

Alcohol is converted to acetaldehyde, a toxic substance that damages DNA. It also causes inflammation and hormonal changes.

Scientists are calling for measures such as warning labels and information campaigns to reduce alcohol consumption.