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Surgeon General Identifies Serious Alcohol and Cancer Risk

February 17, 2025

The outgoing U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, has issued a strong warning about the proven link between alcohol consumption and cancer in a newly published advisory (January 2025). Sunrise Detox Center and Praesum support this initiative and want to break down more about the stark warning, and what treatment is available for those struggling with alcohol.

The Scientific Reality: Alcohol Causes Cancer

The advisory confirms that alcohol consumption is a direct cause of at least seven cancers, including:

  • Breast (in women)

  • Colorectal

  • Esophageal

  • Laryngeal (voice box)

  • Liver

  • Mouth

  • Throat

Despite this, most Americans remain unaware of the cancer risk. The advisory urges stronger public education, similar to past tobacco warnings, and calls for updated Surgeon General warnings on alcohol labels. Sunrise Detox Center and Praesum Healthcare, with over 30 facilities across five states, share the Surgeon General's new approach.

Praesum Healthcare’s Commitment to Evidence-Based Treatment

Our continuum of care aligns with the Surgeon General’s call for comprehensive, integrated care for substance use disorders.

Sunrise Detox Center and Praesum Healthcare support his message that we must continue to engage in robust evidence-based programs and interventions for preventing and treating substance use disorders.

We believe that:

  • Effective treatment includes medical detox, behavioral health therapy, and long-term recovery planning.

  • Prevention and education are key to reducing alcohol-related harm.

  • A continuum of care ensures the best outcomes for individuals seeking recovery.

Beyond Cancer: The Need for Quality Substance Use Treatment

Alcohol-related health risks extend beyond cancer, as Dr. Murthy asserted in a press release. Excessive alcohol use contributes to:

  • 100,000 cancer cases per year

  • 20,000 alcohol-related cancer deaths annually

  • More fatalities than alcohol-related traffic accidents (13,500 deaths/year)

To the surprise of many, the Surgeon General has taken one of the most strident governmental stances on recreational drinking, pushing for positions that would increase awareness of those causal links. Furthermore, he makes critical assertions in the report, echoing his earlier impactful declaration, Facing Addiction: The Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health

Dr. Murthy consistently emphasized throughout his tenure that the best treatment outcomes result from integrated care for substance use and mental health disorders.

How Sunrise Detox Center Leads the Way

At Sunrise Detox Center Centers, we specialize in medically supervised detox as the first step to recovery. Our specialized 20-year approach has advanced programs, including:

  • 24/7 Medical Supervision – Safe, comfortable withdrawal management.

  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – Reduces severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

  • Comprehensive Therapy – Individual, group, and peer support.

  • In-Network with Most Insurance Providers – Making treatment accessible.

  • 24-Hour Transportation – Immediate admission is available.

Together, we can navigate the complexities of substance use and mental health, empowering individuals facing this public health crisis to reclaim their lives and thrive, no matter what chronic substance use they are confronting.

Take the First Step to Recovery

The Surgeon General’s report emphasizes the urgent need for accessible, effective treatment. Sunrise Detox and Praesum Healthcare are committed to helping individuals break free from addiction and reclaim their health. Call 888-443-3869 – Our team is available 24/7 to guide you or a loved one toward recovery.