Overview
- An Annenberg survey conducted Feb. 3–17, 2026 (n=1,650; MOE ±3.5%) found 53% of U.S. adults say regular alcohol use raises cancer risk, statistically unchanged from 56% in Feb. 2025.
- In the same survey, 16% said alcohol has no effect on cancer risk and 29% were unsure, both essentially unchanged year over year.
- The 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines released Jan. 7 recommend limiting alcohol but make no mention of cancer, replacing the 2020–2025 guidance that explicitly warned of increased risk even at low levels.
- APPC director Kathleen Hall Jamieson criticized the removal, saying the USDA turned its back on substantial research and missed a chance for a life‑saving message.
- A peer‑reviewed study of 827 current drinkers who were unaware of the link reported awareness rose to 70% after a short animated video, though heavy drinkers, some cancer survivors, and people who avoid health information were less likely to respond, indicating a need for tailored messaging.