A new federal report highlights the dangers of even moderate alcohol consumption, linking it to a higher risk of liver disease, cancer, and death. According to the findings, consuming just seven drinks per week increases the risk of alcohol-related mortality to 1 in 1000, while consuming nine or more drinks raises this risk to 1 in 100. Alcohol’s role in causing seven types of cancer—including liver, colorectal, and breast cancer—is particularly concerning, with risks beginning at low levels of use and growing with higher consumption. The report also notes that women face significantly higher risks of alcohol-related cancers per drink compared to men.

Health experts are urging for stronger public health warnings, citing these findings as evidence of alcohol’s considerable risks. The report adds urgency to debates about including stricter alcohol-related guidelines in the 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Meanwhile, advocates continue to press for more visible warnings on alcoholic beverages to raise awareness about its link to cancer and other serious health issues.

More information can be found at Addiction Policy.