Serving the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire of Georgia and South Carolina.
Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Alcohol has an age-old history of serving as a glass-raising accessory when socializing. While contemporary medical perspectives toward alcohol consumption typically leaned toward moderation and possible health benefits, new studies have a sobering point of view.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services lists the consumption of alcoholic beverages as a known human carcinogen. In early 2025, Dr. Vivek Murthy, the U.S. Surgeon General at the time, issued an advisory noting a direct link between alcohol consumption and the risk of cancer. The statement explained alcohol consumption is the leading preventable cause of cancer in America, contributing to nearly 100,000 cancer cases and about 20,000 cancer deaths annually. Additionally, the advisory elaborated that drinking alcohol increases the risk of developing at least seven types of cancer. This includes breast, esophagus, colorectum, liver, mouth, throat and voice box cancer.
Drinking the stress away isn’t exactly a novel concept. Yet recent research led by the University of Massachusetts Amherst points toward the negative effects of self medicating with alcohol. Young adults who drink to lessen stress can experience cognitive issues in middle-age, even despite a long stretch of abstinence. The study explains how alcohol rewires the brain’s circuitry. Negative results include the lack of being able to handle changing situations, an increased likelihood of drinking when stressed, and the possibility of cognitive decline similar to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Dietary Guidelines for Americans for 2025-2030 simply states that consuming less alcohol leads to better overall health. It also identifies those who should completely refrain from drinking alcohol. This includes pregnant women, those who are recovering from alcohol use disorder or are unable to control their consumption, and people taking medications or with medical conditions that can interact with alcohol. Since evidence shows alcohol dependence is a complex genetic disease, those with a family history of alcoholism should approach drinking with caution.
If you are concerned about the risks of alcohol consumption or think you may have a problem with alcohol, a SouthCoast Health primary care provider can provide strong medical advice and suggestions. To discuss any concerns you may have, schedule an appointment online.
Whether you are looking for a primary care doctor or a pediatrician, or another medical specialist, SouthCoast Health has you covered with its wide range of world-class healthcare services, available throughout the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry. SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 16 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hilton Head, Hinesville, and Statesboro. SouthCoast Health offers comprehensive medical services including: Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Allergy and Asthma, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Eye Care, Imaging, Infectious Diseases, Nephrology, Neurology, Physical Therapy, Podiatry, Surgery, Clinical Trial Research Studies, Diabetic Self-Management Training Sessions, Dietetic Counseling, Laboratory Services, Massage Therapy, Optical Shop, Pharmacy, and Urgent Care.
SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hinesville, and Statesboro.
