Australian researchers have said alcohol consumption accounts for a higher share of cancer cases in the country than previously estimated.
A study released on Thursday by the University of Sydney found that about 4.6 per cent of all cancers in Australia are linked to alcohol use, with consumption also increasing overall cancer risk by 19 per cent.
The findings, published in the British Journal of Cancer, were based on an analysis of alcohol consumption patterns among 225,000 participants in New South Wales under the 45 and Up Study.
Lead author of the research, Peter Sarich of the University of Sydney School of Public Health, said the evidence underscores the role of alcohol reduction in cancer prevention.
He noted that cancer remains the leading cause of premature death in Australia, adding that cutting alcohol intake could significantly lower the burden of the disease.
According to the study, more than 7,800 cancer cases recorded in Australia in 2024 were attributable to alcohol consumption, a figure higher than earlier estimates, which ranged between 2.8 and 4.1 per cent.
The researchers found a direct link between alcohol intake and cancer risk, stating that for every 10 drinks consumed weekly, the likelihood of developing cancer rises by 19 per cent.
They further revealed that alcohol increases the risk of liver cancer by 46 per cent, cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx and oesophagus by 27 per cent, breast cancer by 18 per cent, and colorectal cancer by 16 per cent.
Sarich said adherence to national guidelines, which recommend no more than 10 drinks per week, could prevent over 3,700 alcohol-related cancer cases annually.
He, however, expressed concern that only about half of the population is aware of the link between alcohol consumption and cancer.
