According to the most recent Cancer Progress Report, the United States has experienced a 33% decrease in the death rate due to cancer from 1991 to 2021.
The American Association for Cancer Research released a report on Wednesday that estimates the reduction to be equivalent to 4.1 million saved lives.
In the last two decades, cancer deaths among children and adolescents have also decreased by 24%.
The authors note that while the decline in cancer mortality is attributed to reduced smoking rates, improved treatment, and earlier detection, alcohol remains a factor of risk.
According to the report excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of six types of cancer:
- Breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Liver cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Certain types of head and throat cancer
- Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
A news release for the study states that “In the U.S. in 2019, 5.4% of cancers have been attributed to alcohol consumption,” the latest year for which there are data available. Research has found a link between alcohol consumption during pregnancy and the likelihood that the child will develop leukemia following birth. Both moderate and high levels are associated with the risk.
Alcohol consumption at a younger age may increase the risk of cancer in later life.
The release stated “Unfortunately, there is still a low level of awareness regarding the link between alcohol consumption and cancer. This highlights the need for effective public messaging campaigns such as cancer warning labels on alcoholic drinks, in addition to clinical strategies designed to reduce the burden associated with alcohol-related cancers.”
Researchers found that more than 40 percent of cancer deaths among Americans aged 30 or older could be attributed to lifestyle factors that can be altered. Other modifiable factors that can be changed include alcohol, smoking, excessive body weight, inactivity, and diet.
