Alcohol and cancer

International research has shown that alcohol can cause cancer, even at moderate consumption levels. This report includes estimates that almost 30% of the cases of alcohol-induced cancer in Sweden are due to moderate or low levels of alcohol consumption, and that the more the individual consumes, the greater the risk. It should also be noted that the cost of hospital treatment of alcohol-induced cancer exceeded SEK 320 million in Sweden in 2014. This year’s report also includes estimates of the percentage of Swedish deaths from cancer where alcohol was a factor, in order to highlight the importance of the issue and to intensify initiatives aimed at prevention and information provision.

Summary

Key messages

Social media assets

COMMUNITY VOICE

Healthy living and lifestyles are a strong trend in Sweden, but no other EU country knows less about or is less aware of the link between alcohol and cancer. And given that alcohol is the second most common contributory factor in terms of the global cancer burden, according to the World Health Organisation, this is something we are keen to change. Which is why we hope that this report can help boost knowledge levels and awareness, and increase interest in the issue, both in the health care sector and in society as a whole.

Stefan Lindgren,
Chairman, Swedish society of medicine

Claudia Fahlke,
Director, CERA, University of Gothenburg

Johnny Mostacero,
Chairman, IOGT-NTO