U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has requested new warning labels on alcohol. This comes as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports alcohol consumption as the third primary preventable cancer causing factor in the U.S.
The department reveals that less than half of Americans know the cancer-related risks of alcohol, despite strong evidence that it contributes to at least seven types of cancer. Dr. Murthy's solution is to introduce warning labels on alcoholic beverage packaging that state the link between drinking and cancer, concurrently suggesting a reassessment of consumption guidelines.
Every year, alcohol is responsible for approximately 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 related deaths in the U.S., exceeding the 13,500 fatalities resulting from alcohol-induced traffic incidents. However, most Americans are unaware of this risk.
The HHS points out links between alcohol and increased chances of developing several cancers, including those of the breast, colorectum, esophagus, liver, mouth, throat, and larynx. Only smoking and obesity pose comparable cancer risks within individual control.
Any changes to the warning labels on alcohol would necessitate Congress's approval. Current warnings inform about the dangers of drinking during pregnancy and the impairment of driving abilities. This messaging has remained largely unchanged since getting approved in 1988.
News of the potential for new labels has influenced the stock market, with shares in alcohol companies dropping on Friday. There is also anticipation that other factors, like increasing tariffs and shifts in drinking behavior, will impact these companies further.
Health concerns have already begun impacting alcohol sales, influencing consumers to reduce their consumption. Analysts also note that financial worries, changing social norms, and the prevalence of weight-loss medications may be causing decreased consumption.
Data indicates a slight decrease in alcohol sales over the last two years, however spirit sales appear to be holding steady. Dry January, a growing tradition of refraining from alcohol in the new year, appears to be extending into other months, impacting sales.