01 Jun ASCO2025: Cancer Deaths Attributable to Alcohol Continue to Rise
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Dr. Jani
Chinmay Jani, MD
Chief Fellow, Hematology & Oncology
University of Miami / Jackson Health System
Dr. Lopes
Gilberto Lopes, M.D.
Professor, Chief, Division of Medical Oncology
Associate Director for the Cancer Center and
Medical Director for International Affairs
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: There is growing evidence linking alcohol consumption to increased cancer risk and mortality. This association was recently emphasized by the former U.S. Surgeon General, prompting renewed public health interest. In response to these concerns, under the mentorship of Dr. Lopes, we evaluated national trends in alcohol-associated cancer mortality using data from the Global Burden of Disease database.
MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings?
Response: The study found that the proportion of cancer deaths attributable to alcohol has increased across nearly all cancer types examined. In 2021, the majority of alcohol-related cancer deaths occurred in males and individuals aged 55 and older, highlighting an urgent need for targeted public health interventions.
Response: What types of cancer are primarily associated with alcohol-related malignancy? Does the type of alcohol make a difference?
Response: Based on available data, the study focused on liver, breast, esophageal, colorectal, oral and lip cavity, pharyngeal, and laryngeal cancers—all of which demonstrated a notable association with alcohol use. While the Global Burden of Disease database does not currently capture data on alcohol type or quantity, future studies are needed to explore these variables and to assess alcohol’s role in other malignancies.
MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?
Response: Alcohol is a modifiable risk factor for cancer mortality. Its impact extends beyond liver cancer, contributing to several other malignancies. With emerging data strengthening this association, the public should be made aware of the risks, and heavy alcohol use should be strongly discouraged.
MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a results of this study?
- Elucidate the biological mechanisms linking alcohol to cancer development.
- Identify high-risk populations for targeted education and screening.
- Evaluate the role of alcohol type, consumption patterns, and quantity in cancer risk.
MedicalResearch.com: Is there anything else you would like to add? Any disclosures?
Dr. Lopes adds, “Our goal is to contribute to growing public awareness about the link between alcohol and cancer risk, an area that remains underrecognized despite being largely preventable. From 1990 to 2021, alcohol-related cancer deaths have nearly doubled, surpassing 23,000 annually. With an estimated 80% of these deaths considered preventable, the need for targeted education and policy efforts is more critical than ever.”
No disclosures.
Citation:
The findings, titled “Escalating Impact of Alcohol-Related Cancer Mortality in the U.S.: A call for action,” will be presented May 31 at ASCO 2025, the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology in Chicago.
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For substance abuse treatment and mental health referrals, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
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Last Updated on June 1, 2025 by Marie Benz MD FAAD
