Why tobacco-style warnings on alcohol bottles can aid fight against cancer
A recent paper, published in the journal Frontiers in Public Health, called for strong, evidence-based warning labels on alcohol products, building on India's success with tobacco warnings.
Alcohol, like tobacco, is a proven carcinogen linked to several cancers, including liver, breast and colon, yet awareness remains low.
'Cancer warning labels on alcohol bottles are a low-cost, high-impact intervention that can raise awareness, influence consumption habits, and prevent long-term health harm,' lead author Dr Abhishek Shankar, Assistant Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, told IANS.
'With India having one of the fastest-growing alcohol markets and the largest adolescent population globally, adopting such preventive measures is not just necessary but urgent to protect our youth and reduce the nation's growing burden of alcohol-related cancers,' the oncologist added.
Cancer cases in India have seen a steep rise, with data from the 2012 to 2022 period suggesting a 36 per cent uptick in incidence (1.01 million−1.38 million).
Data from GLOBOCAN 2022 showed about 1.41 million new cancer cases in India, with a five-year prevalence of around 3.25 million and a total cancer mortality of 916,827 cases.
The alcohol attributable fraction for cancer and age-standardised rate per 100,000 in India are 4.7 per cent and 4.8, respectively, according to the GLOBOCAN 2020 data.
'Alcohol consumption in India is rising at an alarming pace, particularly among adolescents and young adults, making it a silent driver of preventable cancers. Evidence now confirms there is no safe level of alcohol use when it comes to cancer risk, with links to cancers of the colon, breast, liver, oral cavity, and more,' Shankar said.
'Among preventable diseases and deaths, alcohol-related conditions rank high. It raises the risk of many types of cancer and also liver cirrhosis -- all of which are expensive and cumbersome to treat,' added Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman, Scientific Committee, IMA Cochin.
The expert also called out against glorifying the use of alcohol in movies.
'Unfortunately, our movie culture glorifies alcohol use, with younger viewers wanting to emulate movie characters despite statutory warnings. There is also rampant misinformation circulating on social media claiming the health benefits of alcohol, almost all of which have been proven wrong. Still, many people wrongly believe it is good for the heart. Therefore, it is important to include clear health-related labels,' Jayadevan told IANS.
Meanwhile, studies have linked alcohol consumption with more than 20 types of cancers.
The most common cancers linked to alcohol are of the mouth, throat, foodpipe, stomach, colon, rectum, and pancreas. It also causes cancers of the breast in women and prostate in males..
According to experts, chronic alcohol consumption weakens the immune system, reducing its capacity to identify and destroy cancerous cells.
'India successfully demonstrated the power of pictorial warnings on tobacco in shifting behaviors and saving lives. It is time we apply the same public health tool to alcohol. With rising alcohol use, especially among youth, it's time to act proactively to prevent avoidable cancers and save lives,' Shankar told IANS.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
11 hours ago
- First Post
Can a broken heart really kill you? Science says yes — here's why
Scientists now confirm that grief isn't just an emotional wound — it can be deadly. A 10-year Danish study found those experiencing the most intense, unrelenting grief after losing a loved one were nearly twice as likely to die within a decade, highlighting how heartbreak can trigger physical decline, heart issues and even premature death read more Researchers outlined five distinct grief patterns following bereavement, with those in the most severe category facing a higher likelihood of dying within a decade. Representational Image/Pixabay The death of someone deeply loved is one of life's most painful experiences. But beyond the emotional toll, new research suggests that grief can actually shorten lives. A decade-long study from Denmark has found that people enduring the most severe and unrelenting grief were far more likely to die within 10 years of their bereavement than those who coped with it more mildly. Published in the journal Frontiers in Public Health, the research tracked the health of more than 1,700 bereaved individuals for a decade and concluded that grief isn't just an emotional wound — it can trigger a cascade of physical consequences that may ultimately be fatal. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Tracking grief over a decade Beginning in 2012, researchers at Aarhus University in Denmark recruited 1,735 people who had recently lost a loved one — most were women, and their average age was 62. Nearly two-thirds of participants had lost a partner, 27 per cent had lost a parent, and about seven percent had experienced the death of another close relative. The participants were asked to complete detailed surveys on their grief when they enrolled, then again after six months, and once more after three years. These questionnaires helped scientists categorise the severity of their grief over time and to observe how their symptoms evolved or persisted. The researchers identified five distinct grief patterns, or 'trajectories': Persistently low symptoms – 38 per cent of participants displayed relatively mild grief responses that didn't disrupt daily life significantly. High but easing symptoms – 18 per cent started with intense grief that gradually diminished. Moderate but easing symptoms – 29 per cent had mid-range symptoms that lessened over time. Delayed peak symptoms – 9 per cent began with lower levels of grief, which spiked about six months after the loss before tapering off. Persistent high symptoms – 6 per cent remained at consistently elevated levels of grief with little or no relief. It was this last group that faced the gravest risks. The numbers paint a stark picture Over the 10-year follow-up, researchers found that 26.5 per cent of those in the 'high grief' group had died, compared to just 7.3 per cent in the group with the lowest grief symptoms. Those with the most unrelenting sorrow had an 88 per cent higher mortality risk than those with milder grief. The study also found that participants suffering from persistent grief were far more likely to be prescribed antidepressants and to continue mental health therapy years after their loss. Their reliance on primary care and psychiatric services was notably higher in the first three years — though by year seven, these differences began to level off. Researchers stressed that the study didn't determine the exact causes of death among the bereaved. But it strongly reinforces previous evidence that intense emotional distress can lead to serious health consequences. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'We have previously found a connection between high grief symptom levels and higher rates of cardiovascular disease, mental health problems, and even suicide. But the association with mortality should be further investigated,' said Dr. Mette Kjærgaard Nielsen, a postdoctoral researcher at Aarhus University and a coauthor of the study, said in a statement. How grief impacts the body Grief triggers stress responses that can damage the body over time. One well-documented condition, broken heart syndrome — also called stress-induced cardiomyopathy or Takotsubo cardiomyopathy — can appear suddenly after an intense emotional event, such as the loss of a loved one. In this condition, the heart temporarily enlarges and struggles to pump blood efficiently, creating symptoms that can be mistaken for a heart attack. While broken heart syndrome is more commonly diagnosed in women, men who experience it have a higher likelihood of dying from the condition, according to a separate study published earlier this year in the Journal of the American Heart Association. But the effects of grief are not limited to acute heart failure. Prolonged sorrow can lead to elevated blood pressure, chronic inflammation, disrupted hormone levels such as cortisol, and a weakened immune system. Previous research has shown that bereaved spouses and partners face higher risks of dying from heart disease or suicide in the first three years after their loss. For men, there is also an elevated risk of fatal respiratory or digestive issues. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Identifying those most vulnerable The research also shed light on who might be at greatest risk. Many in the 'high grief' category already showed signs of mental health fragility before their loss, with a higher likelihood of having been prescribed psychiatric medications. 'That suggests that they had signs of mental vulnerability which may cause greater distress on bereavement,' Nielsen explained. This insight could help doctors intervene earlier. 'A GP could look for previous signs of depression and other severe mental health conditions,' Nielsen said. 'They can then offer these patients tailored follow-up in general practice, or refer them to a private practice psychologist or secondary care. The GP may also suggest a bereavement follow-up appointment focusing on mental health.' Can therapy change the outcome? The study did not evaluate whether therapy or counselling reduced the likelihood of early death among the most grief-stricken participants. But Nielsen believes there is value in seeking help: 'I would say that they may benefit from specific grief therapy.' Grief therapy, support groups, and structured bereavement follow-ups may help blunt the long-term harm that chronic grief inflicts. Researchers say this is an area that warrants further investigation. Also Watch: With inputs from agencies
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
You can get lung cancer in Delhi without smoking, warns shocking new study
As Delhi observes Lung Cancer Day , medical experts are drawing renewed attention to the city's chronically poor air quality and its growing link to rising lung cancer cases — increasingly among non-smokers. The Asia Pacific Lung Cancer Policy Consensus (APAC Consensus), released this week, has highlighted air pollution as a major emerging risk factor across the region. Non-smokers now forming a growing share of lung cancer patients A 30-year study by the Centre for Chest Surgery at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and Lung Care Foundation reveals a changing patient profile. In 1988, nearly 90% of lung cancer surgery patients were smokers. By 2018, that number had fallen to 50%. Among those under 50, 70% of surgical patients were non-smokers, and among patients below 30, none had a smoking history. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category MCA Data Science Leadership Finance Healthcare healthcare Others Digital Marketing Degree Technology Data Science PGDM Data Analytics Artificial Intelligence Product Management MBA others Cybersecurity Operations Management Management CXO Project Management Public Policy Design Thinking Skills you'll gain: Programming Proficiency Data Handling & Analysis Cybersecurity Awareness & Skills Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Duration: 24 Months Vellore Institute of Technology VIT Master of Computer Applications Starts on Aug 14, 2024 Get Details This shift has prompted experts to point to other environmental triggers. These include prolonged exposure to second-hand smoke, vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, cooking oil vapours, and indoor fuels such as coal. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Man Revealing His Strategy To Earn Upto 3K-5K Daily Income thefutureuniversity Learn More Undo Doctors warn of public health emergency Doctors across the city are raising concern about the alarming trend of younger, non-smoking individuals being diagnosed with lung cancer. Experts also point to possible links between pollution and genetic mutations like EGFR, which are more prevalent in Asian populations. 'We're seeing lung cancer in younger people, in women, in those without any history of smoking or family risk. The common thread is the toxic air,' said Shankar. 'This isn't just an environmental issue, it's a public health emergency.' Live Events As Delhi enters another season of hazardous air, doctors are warning that the connection between pollution and lung cancer is no longer avoidable. According to experts, the risk is now embedded in the very act of breathing. Delhi's air quality and shifting patient profiles Lung cancer has become a significant public health concern in the capital, with its incidence and mortality rates steadily increasing, especially among men. According to the Delhi Cancer Registry, lung cancer accounted for 8.4% of all male cancer cases in 1988, rising to 10.6% by 2015. Among women, it grew from 1.9% to 3.4% in the same period. Delhi's air quality index frequently exceeds permissible limits — often by 8 to 10 times — contributing to a higher risk of respiratory illnesses. Nationally, lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, with India accounting for 5.9% of global cancer cases and 8.1% of related deaths in 2020, according to the Journal of Thoracic Oncology. Medical consensus and policy recommendations Dr Abhishek Shankar, assistant professor of radiation oncology at AIIMS and India's representative in the APAC Consensus, stated that the association between air pollution and lung cancer is now firmly established. 'The link between air pollution and lung cancer is no longer a suspicion — it's a reality we're living with in Delhi,' he said. The APAC Consensus document, developed by ASPIRE for Lung Cancer and regional stakeholders, recommends urgent action to broaden lung cancer risk definitions beyond smoking, improve early screening access, reduce stigma for non-smoker patients, and ensure equitable treatment availability. It also calls for stronger environmental regulations to reduce exposure to carcinogenic pollutants.
News18
3 days ago
- News18
Lung Cancer Myths, Risks And Signs, Doctor Shares Key Facts You Must Know
Last Updated: Lung cancer is an escalating health crisis in India, caused not just by smoking but also by air pollution, genetic predisposition, and occupational hazards. Each year on August 1, the world observes Lung Cancer Day to raise awareness about the disease and defeat the stigma associated with it. According to GLOBOCAN 2020 data by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), lung cancer remained the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in 2020, accounting for an estimated 1.8 million deaths, about 18% of all cancer fatalities, as reported by the World Health Organisation (WHO). In India too, Lung cancer is a serious public health issue, taking thousands of lives each year and affecting both smokers and non-smokers alike. According to the Indian Journal of Medical Research (2025), the number of cases in India is expected to rise from 63,807 in 2015 to 81,219 cases in 2025 It's Not Just A Smoker's Disease While smoking is the most widely known cause of lung cancer, in India, a growing number of non-smokers are being diagnosed due to environmental triggers. Dr. Mohit Sharma, Clinical Director & HOD- Medical Oncology, Marengo Asia Hospitals Faridabad, highlights that the most common misconception about lung cancer is that only smokers develop lung cancer. 'While smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer, many times, non-smokers develop lung cancer because of environmental factors, secondhand smoke exposure, genetic mutations, radon exposure, etc," Dr Sharma says. He also notes that due to this myth, timely diagnosis in non-smokers is often put off, because early symptoms are dismissed as minor respiratory issues. 'Many people still consider lung cancer solely a smoker's disease, which is dangerous in that it fosters a false sense of security in non-smokers. Because of this misconception, many people without smoking experiences will often delay getting a checkup or diagnosis, allowing the disease to progress without medical treatment," Dr Sharma adds. As per the National Cancer Registry and GLOBOCAN 2020, India reported 85,221 new lung cancer cases and 70,264 deaths in 2020, with an age-standardised incidence rate of 7.3 per 100,000. Smoking is still the major contributor, responsible for around 60–70% of male cases and a significant portion among females. However, among Indian women, lung cancer doesn't feature among the top five cancers, indicating that other risk factors are at play. Air pollution, secondhand smoke, and workplace exposure to carcinogens are increasingly affecting non-smokers. Link Between Air Pollution and Lung Cancer in India Air pollution, especially fine particulate matter known as PM 2.5, is a key risk factor for lung cancer in India, particularly among non-smokers. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) categorised outdoor air pollution and PM2.5 as Group 1 carcinogens in 2013, directly linking them to lung cancer. PM2.5 particles are tiny (less than 2.5 microns), allowing them to reach deep into the lungs, where they cause inflammation and DNA damage that can result in cancer. Urban centres like Delhi-NCR frequently suffer from 'severe" air quality, with AQI levels above 350 due to vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and biomass burning. A 2023 study in Scientific Reports showed a strong link between worsening air quality and rising lung cancer deaths in India. Predictive models were able to estimate pollution levels with 81–98% accuracy. The Global Burden of Disease 2019 report found that 15% of global lung cancer deaths can be attributed to PM2.5 exposure, with India being one of the worst-affected regions. In parts of Asia, including the Western Pacific, the connection between air pollution and lung cancer is especially strong. Research from the Francis Crick Institute revealed that EGFR-mutant lung cancer is more common in areas with high PM2.5 levels, putting non-smokers with genetic vulnerabilities at even greater risk. Symptoms Lung cancer often shows no signs until it reaches an advanced stage, making early detection difficult. The common symptoms include: These symptoms usually develop slowly and are frequently confused with tuberculosis (TB) or other chronic lung diseases. As a result, diagnosis is often delayed. The Tamil Nadu Cancer Registry reports that 70% of patients in India are diagnosed at an advanced stage (35% locally advanced and 35% with metastasis), which greatly reduces the chances of survival. How Symptoms Are Often Missed Or Misunderstood Lung cancer symptoms are commonly confused with other respiratory issues. In India, air pollution worsens asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while TB remains a prevalent diagnosis. Dr Sharma says, 'The diagnosis of lung cancer is often delayed because patients with symptoms of lung cancer, such as persistent or worsening cough, persistent fatigue, or unexplained shortness of breath, often attribute their symptoms to trivial conditions such as asthma or allergies." 'Perhaps, the most concerning phenomenon is that many patients seeking help from a medical professional only do so after the symptoms worsen – thus leading to late-stage diagnosis of lung cancer when treatment becomes more challenging," he adds. Many people seek medical help only after more serious signs, such as coughing up blood or major weight loss, appear—by which time the disease may be advanced. How Early Detection Saves Lives Dr Sharma highlights that an early-stage lung cancer is most treatable, and screening is an important factor in detecting the disease at an early stage. Detecting lung cancer early greatly improves survival rates. Globally, the five-year survival rate for lung cancer is between 10–20%, but early detection can significantly improve outcomes. In India, lung cancer is the fourth most common cancer, and with a high mortality rate (5.3 per 100,000), early diagnosis is especially crucial. 'Screening is highly recommended for people aged 50 and older with a history of heavy smoking or long-term exposure to certain exposures, such as pollutants (e.g., asbestos) or a family history of lung cancer," Dr Sharma says. Dr Sharma advises individuals at higher risk to take an annual screening for lung cancer via low-dose CT scans, which have been shown to have the potential for earlier stage detection and subsequent treatment. Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans are highly effective in spotting lung cancer in people who show no symptoms but are considered high-risk, especially those aged 55–80 with a 20 pack-year smoking history or who quit recently. What Lifestyle Changes Can Lower A Person's Risk Of Lung Cancer? Dr Sharma explains that a few healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the chances of developing lung cancer. 'Stopping smoking and stopping environmental tobacco smoke like secondhand smoke are the most critical," he adds. He adds that staying active, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limiting alcohol intake can help lower the risk. Avoiding exposure to air pollution, radon, and workplace carcinogens also plays a key role in reducing risk and supporting overall lung health. Quit Smoking and Avoid Tobacco: Quitting smoking is the single most effective way to reduce lung cancer risk. According to the ICMR, quitting before age 50 can reduce risk by half within 10–15 years. Avoiding smokeless tobacco (like chewing tobacco or pan) and hookah is equally important, as both beedis and cigarettes pose high risks. Limit Secondhand Smoke Exposure: Encourage those around you to quit smoking, and steer clear of smoky areas. Secondhand smoke increases a non-smoker's lung cancer risk by up to 20%. Reduce Exposure to Air Pollution: Avoid going outdoors when AQI levels are dangerously high (e.g., above 300), especially in polluted cities like Delhi. Wear N95 masks, use indoor air purifiers, and maintain good ventilation at home. Exercise Regularly: Staying active strengthens lung function and boosts overall health. Even indoor workouts during high pollution periods can lower cancer risk by improving immunity, as per Hindustan Times. Avoid Harmful Workplace Exposures: Workers in construction, mining, or industrial jobs should use proper safety gear to protect themselves from asbestos, coal dust, and other carcinogens. Get Regular Health Check-Ups: Routine screenings for high-risk individuals—such as those with a family history or living in highly polluted areas—are vital for early detection. The Times of India stresses that knowing symptoms and accessing LDCT scans can be life-saving when facilities are available. Progress In Lung Cancer Treatment top videos View all Dr Sharma notes that lung cancer treatment has advanced significantly in recent years. Newer options like immunotherapy and targeted therapies offer more personalised, effective care with fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. 'Liquid biopsies have facilitated more timely genetic mutation detection and, as a result, therapy selection. All of the above have contributed to higher survival rates and quality of life for many individuals," he adds. About the Author Surbhi Pathak Surbhi Pathak, subeditor, writes on India, world affairs, science, and education. She is currently dabbling with lifestyle content. Follow her on X: @S_Pathak_11. Get Latest Updates on Movies, Breaking News On India, World, Live Cricket Scores, And Stock Market Updates. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: August 01, 2025, 08:00 IST News explainers Lung Cancer Myths, Risks And Signs, Doctor Shares Key Facts You Must Know Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
