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Very Hot Beverages Raise Cancer Odds
9 Sep
Summary
- Drinking very hot beverages increases esophageal cancer risk.
- Consuming six or more very hot drinks daily heightens risk.
- A temperature of 65°C or above is considered very hot.
Regularly consuming very hot beverages, such as tea and coffee, has been linked to an increased risk of esophageal cancer. UK research involving nearly a million adults suggests that drinking beverages at temperatures of 65 degrees Celsius or higher nearly triples the risk compared to consuming warm drinks. This risk is further amplified for individuals who drink six or more very hot beverages each day.
The study, published in the International Journal of Cancer, highlights that steaming hot liquid can damage the delicate lining of the food pipe. While the overall likelihood of developing this specific cancer is low, researchers estimate that one to two out of every ten esophageal cancers could be prevented if people avoided very hot drinks. Other significant risk factors for esophageal cancer include smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Cancer Research UK advises letting hot drinks cool to a comfortable temperature before drinking, although an exact cooling time cannot be specified. They emphasize that avoiding smoking and reducing alcohol intake are the most crucial steps for lowering the risk of this cancer. Symptoms can include heartburn, indigestion, throat or chest pain, and unexplained weight loss.
