While harm impact of cannabis use cannot be measured solely on mortality rates and
DALYs, the greatest measurement comparison between the extent of harm from alcohol vs
cannabis comes from the distinct and direct impact on loss of life and disability.
WHO publishes a list of the International Disease Classification 10 codes; of which 25 are
readily attributable to alcohol usage. Epidemiological evidence exists, which indicates
alcohol plays a role in the development of certain chronic diseases such as liver cirrhosis,
ischemic heart diseases, cancer, and diabetes. An estimated 3.6% of all cancers are
attributed to alcoholic intake. A causal link has been established between alcohol
consumption and cancer of the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, colon, rectum, and 12.5
total oral cancers.[xix]
As a point of reference, in a Statistics Canada Community Health survey (2012), 3.2% of the
Canadian population self-reported abuse or dependence in the past year (1.7% females;
4.7% males).[xx]
The CCSU writes in their report, Canadian Substance Use and Harms (2007-2014), that of the
$38 billion in alcohol harm impact, almost $9 billion is in criminal justice costs of substance
abuse. Further, 20% of all violent crime committed in Canada is related to alcohol use.[i]
Individuals who consume excess quantities of alcohol place themselves and those around
them at great risk for behavior-induced violence, as well as open a possibility of committing
crimes. WHO classifies domestic violence cases, or violent behaviour towards intimate
partners, as acts of aggression, psychological abuse, forced sexual intercourse, or any other
controlling behaviour.[ii]
Public health data collection of the frequency and severity of these crimes indicate Canadian
rates are rising. Taken also from the WHO report are the economic impact of alcohol abuse
of intimate partners:
The economic costs of partner violence include those to health care and judicial systems,
shelter for victims, and lost earnings.