Opinions on the effect of alcohol on cancer risk among US adults in 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the correlates of opinions about the effect of alcohol on cancer risk among US adults.

Methods: Cross-sectional analysis of the National Cancer Institute's 2024 Health Information National Trends Survey. Participants were asked, "In your opinion, how does drinking alcohol affect the risk of getting cancer?" Response options were decreases risk, no effect, increases risk, and don't know. Univariable and multivariable associations between opinions about the effect of alcohol on cancer risk and possible correlates were evaluated using logistic regression models comparing decreases risk/no effect vs. increases risk (reference), and don't know vs. increases risk (reference). Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals are reported.

Results: 5,466 participants were included for analysis: 10.2% reported that alcohol decreases risk/no effect, 50.4% reported don't know, and 39.4% reported that alcohol increases risk (weighted percentages). Odds of responding decreases risk/no effect were greater in those who consumed alcohol, but lower in those who were female, Asian, had "a lot" of trust in scientists for cancer information, or looked for cancer information from any source. Odds of responding don't know were greater in those who were in older age groups or were Black/African American, but lower in those who were Asian, a college graduate, had "a lot" of trust in scientists for cancer information, looked for cancer information from any source, watched a health video on social media, or were liberal.

Conclusion: Findings from this study can inform targeted communications to improve awareness about alcohol consumption and increased cancer risk.

Keywords: Alcohol; Belief; Cancer; Opinion.