A new survey shows that many Americans don’t realize drinking alcohol can increase the risk of cancer.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises reducing or avoiding alcohol to lower cancer risk, less than half of U.S. adults are aware of this connection, according to data from the Annenberg Public Policy Center (APPC).
The CDC reports that over half of U.S. adults drink alcohol, with 17% binge drinking and 6% drinking heavily.
Research, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, has confirmed that alcohol use is linked to serious health risks, including a higher chance of dying from cancer or other causes.
Survey reveals low awareness
The findings come from APPC’s Annenberg Science and Public Health (ASAPH) Knowledge survey, conducted with over 1,700 U.S. adults in September 2024.
The survey revealed that only 40% of participants knew regular alcohol use increases the chance of developing cancer. Another 40% were unsure, and 20% held incorrect beliefs—either thinking alcohol has no effect or even reduces cancer risk.
Patrick E. Jamieson, who leads APPC’s Annenberg Health and Risk Communication Institute, highlighted the challenge of spreading awareness. “Public health messages about alcohol’s risks must overcome decades of clever marketing and positive portrayals in the media,” he explained.
How the survey was conducted
The data come from the 21st wave of APPC’s nationally representative panel, which has been tracking public health knowledge since April 2021.
The latest survey, conducted from September 13-30, 2024, included 1,744 adults, with 360 new participants added to the sample. The survey has a margin of error of ±3.5 percentage points.
Takeaway
These findings show the need for clearer public health messages about the dangers of alcohol.
Many Americans remain unaware of the link between drinking and cancer, which means they might not be taking steps to reduce their risk. Public health experts recommend drinking less—or not at all—to help lower the chances of developing cancer later in life.
This study highlights the importance of making accurate health information widely available, so people can make informed choices about their habits.
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