The 2025 Surgeon General’s Advisory on Alcohol and Cancer Risk highlights alcohol’s role in approximately 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 deaths annually in the U.S., calling for updated warning labels, stricter consumption guidelines, and increased public education. The advisory underscores alcohol’s link to at least seven cancers—breast, colorectal, esophageal, liver, oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal.
Dr. Brian P. Lee, a transplant hepatologist, supports the advisory as a necessary correction to public misconceptions. While past research suggested moderate drinking might benefit heart health, newer data reveal these benefits are outweighed by increased risks of cancer and liver disease. The U.S. allows higher alcohol consumption limits than other countries, with guidelines permitting up to one drink per day for women and two for men, whereas Canada advises a maximum of two drinks per week, and the WHO states no level of alcohol is safe.
Dr. Lee stresses the need for broad outreach, warning that many Americans remain unaware of alcohol’s cancer risks. He highlights a fivefold increase in alcohol-related liver transplants over the past 20 years and advocates for preventive measures. While trends like Dry January promote awareness, he cautions that temporary abstinence is insufficient—sustained reductions in alcohol consumption are necessary for long-term health benefits.
Ethanol in alcoholic beverages contributes to cancer through multiple biological mechanisms, including DNA damage, inflammation, hormone disruption, and increased absorption of carcinogens. Despite strong evidence, awareness remains low—only a third of Americans recognize alcohol as a cancer risk, and some mistakenly believe wine reduces the risk. Given that alcohol is the third leading preventable cause of cancer death in the U.S., the advisory urges clear consumer warnings and widespread education to minimize harm.
Corporate Alcohol Policy
To introduce the corporate policy about alcohol usage at the organization by employees a letter from management to staff is a first step: [Company Name] [Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]
Dear [Employee’s Name],
As part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of everyone at [Company Name], we are implementing a new policy regarding alcohol consumption in the workplace. This policy has been designed in response to emerging research on the relationship between alcohol and cancer risk.
Introducing Change
Starting [date], we will be introducing guidelines that aim to raise awareness about the potential health risks associated with alcohol consumption. Specifically, we are providing information about how alcohol may contribute to cancer risk, particularly when consumed in excess. We want to emphasize that our goal is not to discourage moderate alcohol consumption but to foster a more informed and health-conscious environment at [Company Name].
What Does This Mean for You?
We ask that you please review the new guidelines and take note of the recommendations. The policy outlines our expectations for responsible alcohol use at work-related events and gatherings, including the importance of moderation and awareness of personal health risks.
At [Company Name], we believe in taking proactive steps to ensure the overall well-being of our employees. We trust that this policy will help support healthy choices while continuing to create a positive work environment.
If you have any questions or concerns about the policy, or if you would like to learn more about how alcohol consumption may impact health, please feel free to reach out to the Human Resources department or consult with a healthcare professional.
We appreciate your attention to this matter and your continued support in fostering a healthy workplace. Thank you for your understanding, and please do not hesitate to get in touch should you need further clarification.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
