Prevalence and trends in recent alcohol consumption by cancer history and cancer type in a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults

Abstract Purpose Alcohol consumption increases the risk of several cancer types. Using nationally representative data, we aimed to 1) quantify trends in alcohol consumption by cancer history and 2) estimate prevalence differences in alcohol consumption comparing individuals with vs. without a cancer history overall and by cancer type. Methods We used Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) cross-sectional data from 2016–2024 for trend and 2022–2024 for prevalence difference analyses. We calculated weighted prevalences of current (past-30-day alcohol consumption), binge, and heavy drinking among individuals with and without a cancer history. Annual percentage-point changes (APPCs) and adjusted prevalence differences were estimated using linear regression. Results Data from 3,968,799 and 465,870 respondents were included in trend and prevalence difference analyses. Across all years, the current drinking prevalence was lower among individuals with a cancer history than without. Current drinking declined among those without a cancer history (53.9% in 2016 to 51.5% in 2024; APPC = − 0.28%, p <.05) but not among those with a cancer history (45.8% in both 2016 and 2024; APPC = 0.06%, p =.70). The adjusted prevalence of current and binge drinking was lower in those with a cancer history. By cancer type, the adjusted prevalence of current drinking was lower for most sites except for testicular, skin, and melanoma. Conclusions Alcohol consumption was generally less prevalent among those with vs. without a reported cancer history and modestly declined over time in the latter group. These results inform the understanding of recent patterns in alcohol consumption by cancer history.