Overview

• The new WHO/IARC handbook estimates 111,300 alcohol-attributable cancer cases and 93,000 deaths in the EU in 2020.
• At least seven cancers are implicated, with the largest 2020 case counts in colorectal (36,900), breast (24,200) and oral cavity (12,400).
• Roughly 70% of alcohol-attributable cancer cases occur in men, underscoring a pronounced gender imbalance.
• Recommended measures include higher excise taxes, restricted retail availability, strict marketing bans, raised purchase age and, where appropriate, state sales control.
• EU countries face significant economic costs, including €4.58 billion from premature deaths in 2018, while many people with alcohol problems still lack treatment.