Despite clear evidence that alcohol causes at least seven types of cancer, a new national survey conducted by Alcohol Change Australia has shown a significant lack of awareness about this association.
Alcohol was estimated to be responsible for 4% of all new cancer cases in Australia in 2020, but the survey — involving 2000 adults — has found that only 14% of Australians were aware that alcohol can lead to breast cancer and just a third know it causes cancers of the mouth and throat.
Awareness regarding the link between alcohol and cancer was found to be lower among men, younger Australians and people living in regional areas, and people in lower income households.
Need for action
Hannah Pierce, Executive Officer at Alcohol Change Australia, said the results emphasised the need for government action to increase awareness.
“Every Australian has the right to be fully informed about the products they use, especially when these products have the potential to cause significant harm. Despite the clear link between alcohol and various cancers, too many in our community remain unaware of the danger,” Pierce said.
“By providing Australians with accurate information about the carcinogenic risks of alcohol, we can empower the community, but it’s essential that this information cuts through the noise of industry marketing to reach every Australian.”
Warning labels
Pierce called on the federal government to introduce health warning labels on all alcohol products as a fundamental component of the comprehensive strategy needed to reduce alcohol-related harm.
Julia Stafford, Deputy Chair of Cancer Council’s Nutrition, Alcohol and Physical Activity Committee, said raising awareness of the link between alcohol and cancer is crucial to reducing preventable cancers, and called for action from the Australian Government.
“The alcohol industry has a vested interest in downplaying the serious health impacts of its products. Alcohol companies spend millions each year on marketing that glorifies alcohol use but the evidence is undeniable — alcohol causes cancer,” Stafford said.
“It’s time for the introduction of health warning labels on all alcohol products. Clear and visible warnings will be a crucial step towards reducing alcohol-related harm and preventing cancer.”
Voice of lived experience
Breast cancer survivor Kathryn Elliott used to binge drink regularly before her diagnosis. She said her personal experience made her realise just how little public awareness there is about the direct connection between alcohol use and breast cancer.
“Annually, between 1000 and 2000 individuals face a diagnosis of breast cancer directly attributable to alcohol. Despite the profound impact on these individuals and their families, awareness about the link between alcohol and breast cancer remains alarmingly low.
“We need to have open conversations about the harms caused by alcohol. Before my diagnosis I didn’t know that drinking alcohol can cause breast cancer. All women should be given health information and clear warnings about this so that they can make more educated decisions around their drinking.”
Alcohol Change Australia is advocating for a comprehensive strategy to reduce alcohol-related harm. This includes the implementation of health warning labels, robust public education campaigns, and government action on alcohol marketing and price to prioritise the health and wellbeing of the Australian community.