Oregon Alcohol Industry Takes Issue with Health Authority Over Delayed Report

Report Alleges Elevated Cancer Risks from Alcohol Consumption

Industry Contests Findings, Claims Bias and Lack of Transparency

A storm is brewing within the Oregon alcohol industry as several businesses and organizations vehemently oppose a report released by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). Titled “Alcohol Consumption and Cancer Risk: A Comprehensive Assessment,” the report has drawn sharp criticism for its delayed publication and its assertions regarding the link between alcohol consumption and cancer.

Delayed Publication Raises Concerns

At the heart of the industry’s discontent lies the delay in the report’s release. The OHA had initially scheduled its publication for 2021, only to postpone it without explanation. This move has raised accusations of suppression and a lack of transparency from the health authority.

“The OHA’s failure to release this report in a timely manner is unacceptable,” asserted Tom Danner, President of the Oregon Winegrowers Association (OWA). “The industry and the public deserve transparency and accountability from our public health officials.”

Contested Findings on Alcohol and Cancer Link

Beyond the publication delay, the report’s findings themselves have met with significant resistance from industry stakeholders. The report asserts a causal link between alcohol consumption, even at moderate levels, and an increased risk of various types of cancer, including breast, colon, and liver cancer. This claim, according to industry representatives, is exaggerated and not supported by sufficient evidence.

“The OHA report is based on flawed science and biased interpretations of existing research,” said Chris Swonger, President and CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS). “The claim that moderate alcohol consumption poses a significant cancer risk is simply not supported by the facts.”

Accusations of Bias and Lack of Industry Input

Furthermore, industry representatives allege that the OHA conducted the study without adequate input from the alcohol industry. They claim that the health authority disregarded their expertise and concerns, leading to a biased and inaccurate report.

“The OHA failed to engage with the industry in a meaningful way during the preparation of this report,” said Brian Butenschoen, Executive Director of the Oregon Brewers Guild (OBG). “Their unwillingness to consider our input raises serious questions about the objectivity and credibility of the findings.”

Industry Calls for Transparency and Collaboration

In light of these concerns, the alcohol industry is demanding greater transparency and collaboration from the OHA. They urge the health authority to provide a full explanation for the delayed release of the report and to conduct a thorough review of its findings, taking into account industry input.

“We believe that public health policy should be based on sound science and rigorous research,” said Lynn Penner-Ash, President of the Oregon Wine Board (OWB). “The OHA must commit to a transparent and collaborative process to ensure that future reports are accurate, unbiased, and reflect the input of all stakeholders.”

Conclusion: A Call for Dialogue and Evidence-Based Policy

The Oregon alcohol industry’s objections to the OHA report underscore the importance of open dialogue and evidence-based policymaking. The industry’s concerns regarding the report’s delayed publication, contested findings, and lack of industry input highlight the need for transparency and collaboration in public health research and policy development. It remains to be seen how the OHA will respond to these criticisms and whether it will engage in a constructive dialogue with the industry to address their concerns.