New Australian Study Reveals Alcohol Causes Higher Cancer Burden Than Previously Estimated

A new study reveals alcohol causes 4.6% of cancers in Australia, with risk increasing by 19% for every 10 weekly drinks. Researchers urge adherence to safety guidelines.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 7:33 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and the University of Sydney.

Revised Estimates on Alcohol-Related Cancers

Australian researchers have released data suggesting that the impact of alcohol on national cancer rates has been historically underestimated. The study, conducted by the University of Sydney School of Public Health, estimated that alcohol consumption accounted for over 7,800 cancer diagnoses in Australia in 2024. This equates to roughly 4.6% of all cancer cases, surpassing previous estimates that ranged between 2.8% and 4.1%. Lead author Peter Sarich emphasized that while cancer remains the leading cause of premature death in the country, reducing intake is one of the most effective prevention strategies available.

Quantifying the Risk by Consumption Levels

The research analyzed the behavior of 225,000 participants in New South Wales and found a direct correlation between intake volume and disease risk. According to the findings, the overall risk of developing cancer increases by 19% for every 10 drinks consumed per week. Specific organs showed even higher sensitivity to alcohol:

Liver Cancer: 46% increased risk.

Mouth, Throat, and Oesophagus: 27% increased risk.