Alcohol

People in Europe consume the most alcohol

Source: World Health Statistics 2009

More alcohol is consumed in Europe than other parts of the world. The top five countries with the highest consumption were all in Europe (Luxembourg, Moldova, Hungary, Ireland and the Czech Republic). The Americas were next highest followed by the Western Pacific Region (includes China, Malaysia, Japan, Australia and New Zealand). The lowest levels were seen in the Eastern Mediterranean Region and South-East Asia.

There is convincing evidence that alcohol increases the risk of cancer of the oesophagus, mouth, throat (pharynx and larynx), breast, as well as bowel cancer in men. It also probably increases the risk of liver cancer and bowel cancer in women. For more information see the WCRF/AICR Expert Report.

Alcohol consumption per capita among adults 2003