In a move that may signal a shift to a tighter framework like the one on tobacco, the chief medical officer of US Vivek Murthy has called for the addition of warnings on the labels of alcoholic beverages about the risk of cancer.

According to Murthy, drinking alcohol increases the risk of at least seven types of cancer, including breast, colon, and liver, yet most American consumers are unaware of this association.

According to Reuters, Murthy also suggested revising guidelines on alcohol consumption limits, so that people take cancer risk into account, alongside existing warnings about birth defects and impaired abilities when driving or using machinery.

“Alcohol consumption is the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States, after tobacco and obesity,” the statement from Murthy’s office said, noting that it is responsible for about 100,000 cases of cancer and 20,000 deaths annually.

Existing labels on alcoholic beverages in the US, which have remained unchanged since 1988, only warn of the risks during pregnancy and fitness to drive.

The new report, recommends that health care providers encourage patients to screen for alcohol consumption and refer for treatment where necessary, and suggests enhanced public awareness campaigns.