Alcohol's Link to Cancer Underrecognized, Study Finds
A recent study highlighted a significant lack of public awareness regarding alcohol's carcinogenic properties, even as research continues to link it to multiple types of cancer. According to a 2025 report by the U.S. Surgeon General's office, citing a 2019 study, less than half of Americans recognize alcohol as a carcinogen. A more recent 2025 study from JAMA Oncology found that nearly 53% of Americans do not know whether alcohol has any link to cancer at all.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists seven cancers with known increased incidence due to alcohol consumption. These include cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, esophagus, liver, colon, rectum, and breast. The Time report emphasized that many people are surprised to learn of alcohol's classification as a carcinogen, substances known to increase cancer risk. Other well-known carcinogens include tobacco, radiation, and asbestos.
In other health news, a University of Utah study analyzing a century of hair samples demonstrated a 100-fold decrease in lead concentrations in Utahns since 1916. The study, reported by multiple news sources, credits the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations implemented after 1970 for this dramatic reduction. Researchers emphasized the importance of these regulations in protecting public health, especially given current efforts to weaken environmental protections.
Beyond cancer and lead exposure, multiple news outlets covered a diverse range of health-related events. These included scientific advancements like fungal biocontrol and antiviral mechanisms, as well as political and economic issues such as potential NIH interference and financial challenges for companies like Asda. Social debates surrounding transgender rights, hemp regulations, and right-to-repair initiatives were also prominent in the news cycle. Global events, including a tragic fire in Switzerland and significant archaeological discoveries, further contributed to the wide array of topics covered.
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