Alcohol: What you need to know
7 Minutes
Team Curative
Apr 21, 2025
The clink of two champagne glasses. The picturesque patio moment between two friends enjoying a crisp glass of Chardonnay. Add in music, television, movies, advertising, books, and pretty much any and every form of content, and it becomes impossible to avoid the subject of alcohol.
In fact, it’s the only drug people have to justify not using. At the beginning of the year, former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued an advisory linking alcohol consumption to cancer risk, thrusting the topic back into focus.
Talking about the role alcohol plays in our culture and health is a positive step in the right direction. And having affordable health insurance options that help people actually address their alcohol use is even better.
What the former Surgeon General’s advisory says
The former Surgeon General’s January 2025 advisory emphasizes that alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of developing cancer. This data highlights the importance of rethinking our relationship with alcohol. As Dr. Murthy, explained, “The evidence is clear — alcohol is a carcinogen. Recognizing its risks empowers us to make informed decisions for our health.”
Here are some key takeaways from the advisory:
Alcohol consumption is linked to several types of cancer.
Even moderate drinking can increase your risk over time.
The best way to reduce risk is by cutting back or abstaining entirely.
Let’s talk about the mixed messages
The Surgeon General’s advisory directly challenges longstanding beliefs about the potential health benefits of moderate alcohol intake, which have been touted in the media as “proof” we should all continue to throw one back:
Cardiovascular Health: Some studies have suggested that moderate drinking, particularly of red wine, may reduce the risk of heart disease due to antioxidants like resveratrol.
Longevity: Observations from regions like the Mediterranean, where moderate wine consumption is common, have been linked to longer life expectancy.
Diabetes Prevention: Certain research has indicated that moderate alcohol intake might be associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
So…what's the right answer? It’s important to take a closer look at where these sources come from and who is authoring them. A growing body of evidence highlights that industry-funded health campaigns often undermine effective public health policies. The Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Health noted, “The last three decades have seen an increase in the alcohol industry's scientific activities conducted by trade associations, social aspect organizations, and the large global producers under the umbrella of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives such as funding research projects, interpreting scientific findings for the public, and consulting in the development of alcohol control policies.”
Another notable example is the proliferation of alcohol-industry-funded charities, such as DrinkAware and the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility. These organizations often emphasize “responsible drinking” and individual accountability while avoiding discussions about systemic issues like marketing practices, affordability, or policy changes that could impact industry profits.
Given the Dr. Murthy’s advisory and the potential biases in industry-funded research, we need to assess the role of alcohol in our lives. While some studies have suggested certain health benefits, the overarching evidence indicates that even moderate alcohol consumption carries significant health risks, including an increased likelihood of developing cancer. Making informed decisions about alcohol use and accessing affordable health insurance plans to implement harm reduction is essential for long-term health and well-being.
How alcohol could cause cancer
According to the Surgeon General’s report, alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of mouth and throat cancer, esophageal cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, and colon and rectal cancer. This stems from several biological mechanisms:
Toxic chemicals: Alcohol breaks down into acetaldehyde, a carcinogen that damages DNA and prevents the body from repairing it.
Hormonal imbalances: Alcohol consumption can increase estrogen levels, which may contribute to hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer.
Nutritional deficiencies: Drinking alcohol can impair the body’s ability to absorb nutrients that help prevent cancer, such as vitamins A, C, D, and E.
Oxidative stress: Alcohol can produce harmful free radicals, leading to oxidative stress and cell damage.
Alcohol doesn’t just pose immediate risks like impaired judgment or liver damage — it’s a carcinogen that can increase the likelihood of developing various cancers.
Tips for addressing your alcohol consumption
If you’re considering cutting back on alcohol, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) offers some practical strategies:
Set goals and track your drinking habits.
Choose alcohol-free days or events.
Try a Dry January, Dry July, or Sober October.
Swap alcoholic beverages for non-alcoholic alternatives.
Plan ahead to avoid situations that trigger drinking.
Enlist support from friends, family, or professionals.
But sometimes, it takes more than willpower or determination — and there’s no shame in that. Alcohol is an addictive substance, so it’s no surprise that shifting habits can be challenging. Reducing alcohol consumption is a significant step, and evidence-based treatments can help with lasting success.
Behavioral therapies: Counseling can help you identify triggers and develop strategies to stay sober.
Medication: Certain medications can reduce alcohol cravings and minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Support groups: Programs like Alcoholics Anonymous or The Luckiest Club provide peer-based accountability and encouragement.
Digital tools: Apps and online programs like the Sober 90 can help track progress and offer motivational support.
The important thing to remember is you aren’t alone. As the sober curious movement continues to expand and more people heed the Surgeon General’s warning, doctors, wellness experts, affordable health insurance plans, and more will be prioritizing the reduction and elimination of alcohol.
About Curative
Curative is a health plan employees and employers love for its affordability, engagement, and simplicity. With $0 copays and deductibles, members can get the care they need when they need it without the financial burden. Imagine — a health plan that actually delivers better health without hurting your wallet.
At Curative, we understand the challenges of managing alcohol use, and we’re here to support you. Our personalized, affordable health insurance plans provide access to:
Care Navigators: Dedicated professionals who connect you with the healthcare resources you need.
Evidence-based approaches: From therapy to medication-assisted treatments, our coverage supports proven methods for managing substance use.
In-network providers: Our network includes substance use management specialists, ensuring you receive high-quality care.
Pelago partnership: Through Pelago, Curative members can access personalized support to address alcohol use and other substance challenges.
With Curative, you can access an affordable health insurance plan that prioritizes personalized care and proactive health management. Whether you’re seeking support for substance use or taking steps to improve overall well-being, Curative is here to guide you every step of the way. Find out what it’s like to be a Curative member today.
To see all disclaimers, please view here.
Resources
AlcoholHelp. (2024, November 5). Is alcohol a drug? https://www.alcoholhelp.com/alcohol/is-alcohol-a-drug/
American Association for Cancer Research (AACR). (2023, January 23). From Dry January to Sober October: Cutting back on alcohol. https://www.aacr.org/blog/2023/01/23/from-dry-january-to-sober-october-cutting-back-on-alcohol/
Health.com. (2024, September 3). Is red wine good for you? Benefits and risks. https://www.health.com/red-wine-benefits-8691966
Healthline. (2023, October 3). Sober October: What a month of no drinking can do for your health. https://www.healthline.com/health-news/sober-october-what-a-month-of-no-drinking-can-do-for-your-health
The Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs. (2023, February 19). Funding and influence in alcohol research. https://www.jsad.com/doi/10.15288/jsad.22-00434#:~:text=The%20last%20three%20decades%20have,funding%20research%20projects%2C%20interpreting%20scientific
The Luckiest Club. (n.d.). Beyond Dry January. https://www.theluckiestclub.com/resources/beyond-dry-january
The New York Times. (2024, December 9). Best non-alcoholic drinks. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-non-alcoholic-drinks/
The Sun. (2024, November 12). The surprising health benefits of alcohol. https://www.thesun.ie/health/14172159/health-benefits-alcohol-stress-diabetes/
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Table of Contents
What the former Surgeon General’s advisory says
Let’s talk about the mixed messages
How alcohol could cause cancer
Tips for addressing your alcohol consumption
Resources
