The health risks of drinking are not a secret. Most people think of mental health issues like substance use disorder, or accidents like fatal drunk driving collisions. However, the link between alcohol intake and cancer don’t always get as much attention.
Because of the cancer-causing effects of alcohol, experts recommend avoiding drinking. No amount of alcohol is considered safe.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Alcohol and cancer.
National Toxicology Program, Department of Health and Human Services. (2021). Acetaldehyde. Report on Carcinogens, 14th ed.
Office of the U.S. Surgeon General. (2025). Alcohol and cancer risk: The U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory.
Why trust our experts?
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MALauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Reviewed by:
Sarah Gupta, MDSarah Gupta, MD, is a licensed physician with a special interest in mental health, sex and gender, eating disorders, and the human microbiome. She is currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
