Sweden Faces Challenges in Reducing Alcohol-Related Cancer Risks Amid Rising Cancer Diagnoses

Sweden is confronting significant public health challenges regarding alcohol consumption and its established link to cancer, as emphasized in the World Health Organization's (WHO) fifth edition of the cancer code. This updated guidance strongly advises avoiding alcohol to lower cancer risk. However, experts highlight that Sweden's current policies and public awareness efforts are lagging behind these recommendations.

Ellen Brynskog, development leader at the Regional Cancer Centre, underscored that Sweden has not increased alcohol taxes in proportion to inflation, effectively reducing their real value and potentially encouraging consumption. She also noted the country's limited access to effective screening and interventions for alcohol misuse, suggesting the need for improved healthcare responses based on data from the National Board of Health and Welfare. Furthermore, unlike tobacco products, alcoholic beverages in Sweden lack cancer warning labels, a public health measure already adopted by countries such as Ireland.

Public understanding of the connection between alcohol and cancer remains alarmingly low, with many unaware of which cancer types are affected or that no safe consumption threshold exists. Brynskog advocates for a comprehensive approach addressing modifiable risk factors including smoking and unhealthy sun exposure, pointing out that alcohol contributes to about 4-5% of global cancer cases.

Meanwhile, projections from the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare indicate a rise in cancer incidence over the next two decades. Current annual cancer diagnoses number approximately 60,370 cases (32,288 men and 28,082 women) for 2020–2024 but are expected to increase to about 73,492 annually by 2040–2044, with both male and female cases rising. Despite this, mortality rates continue to decline, aided by improved cancer care. An interactive cancer analysis tool, Cancer i Sverige, was updated with 2024 data to help policymakers and healthcare providers better understand trends and target interventions.

The convergence of rising cancer incidence, insufficient alcohol-related cancer risk awareness, and static alcohol taxation presents a compelling call for action in Sweden to align with WHO guidance. Strengthening alcohol control policies, enhancing public education, and implementing warning labels on alcoholic products could form crucial components of reducing future cancer burdens linked to alcohol consumption.