Consuming very hot tea or coffee might increase the likelihood of developing a certain type of esophageal cancer according to a study from the University of Oxford. This research revealed that individuals who consumed beverages deemed ‘very hot’ faced nearly triple the risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) compared to those who preferred their drinks warm.
Regularly consuming six or more hot drinks daily was tied to a 71% increased risk of SCC. However, this association was not observed for a different form of cancer known as esophageal adenocarcinoma, which occurs in the lower part of the esophagus.
Study author Keren Papier indicated that roughly one million U.K. adults participated in this comprehensive investigation. The study marked the most extensive of its type.
The participants were primarily sourced from the Million Women Study (MWS) and the U.K. Biobank (UKB), tracking participants for an average of 14 and 11 years respectively. People drinking ‘hot’ beverages had a 1.7 times elevated SCC risk compared to those who consumed them warm. Those drinking ‘very hot’ had a risk factor increase to three times.
Published in the International Journal of Cancer, the research estimates if the results suggest a true causative link, 14% of SCC cases might be preventable by opting for ‘hot’ over ‘very hot’ drinks.
It is crucial to note the study’s limitation: beverage temperatures were self-reported, not measured. This variability in personal heat tolerance could affect classifications.
Dr. Aaron Sasson, from Stony Brook Cancer Center, highlighted that hot liquids could irritate the esophagus. This irritation might contribute to cancer development.
The level of ‘thermal injury’ may correlate with liquid temperature, akin to other types of burns, potentially increasing SCC risk. Yet, in the U.S., squamous carcinomas in the esophagus are rare.
Dr. Sasson advised, “If you frequently enjoy hot tea or coffee, consider allowing it to cool slightly.” For most, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, acid reflux, and obesity present more documented risks for esophageal cancer.
Addressing established risk factors like limiting alcohol and avoiding cigarettes can significantly benefit esophageal health.
Melissa Rudy, a senior health editor at Fox News Digital, advises readers on health stories through her extensive editorial experience.
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