The Cancer Society has launched a campaign in a bid to educate Kiwis that like tobacco, alcohol causes cancer too.
George Laking, the society's medical director, said many Kiwis are unaware alcohol, including small amounts, can increase the risk of developing at least seven cancers.
What cancers are high risk when alcohol is consumed:
- Mouth
- Pharynx
- Larynx
- Oesophagus
- Breast
- Bowel
- Liver cancer
Dr Laking added the high energy content in alcohol can contribute to weight gain "and indirectly increase the risk of weight-related cancers".
Before the society launched its campaign, it surveyed more than 800 people to shed light on the education between alcohol and cancer and if respondents would support alcohol regulations.
"More than a third of respondents said 'small use of alcohol is safe' in terms of cancer risk," the society said.
Despite breast cancer being the leading cause of alcohol-related death in Aotearoa, "Our survey found it was the least well-known alcohol-related cancer".
The survey found that 65 percent of people supported Government policy to protect children from alcohol advertising and sports sponsorship.
Alcohol products have become "normalised and glamorised" through unrestricted marketing, the society said,
"Alcohol is extremely affordable. In New Zealand with beer, cask wine and bottle wine being sold for less than $1 per standard drink."
Dr Laking said the society would support regulations and policies that would address the affordability of alcohol, outlet density and marketing of alcohol.
