September 10, Kathmandu – Researchers from Oxford University have found that regularly drinking very hot beverages such as tea or coffee significantly increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Published in the International Journal of Cancer, this study is considered the largest of its kind to date, analyzing data from nearly one million men and women. According to the research, individuals who consume beverages at temperatures of 65 degrees Celsius or higher have about three times the risk of developing esophageal cancer compared to those who drink them warm.
The study also indicates that drinking six or more cups of hot beverages daily further raises this risk. Scientists explain that consuming very hot liquids damages the inner cells of the esophagus, which can lead to cancer. Lead researcher Dr. Karen Papier noted that previous studies on “mate,” a popular hot herbal drink in South America, yielded similar results. Typically, water boils at 100 degrees Celsius in a kettle and cools to between 90 and 95 degrees Celsius when poured into a cup.
However, a suitable temperature for takeaway coffee or tea is between 49 and 60 degrees Celsius. Although adding milk cools the drink slightly, researchers recommend waiting a few minutes before drinking to ensure safety. Experts also mention that this type of cancer, known as squamous cell esophageal cancer, is rare and poses a low overall risk to the general population. According to the researchers, avoiding very hot drinks could prevent 1 or 2 out of every 10 cases of esophageal cancer. Cancer Research UK points out that smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are the primary causes of esophageal cancer, making quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake the most effective preventive measures. Common symptoms of esophageal cancer include chest or throat pain, difficulty swallowing food, a burning sensation in the stomach, and weight loss.
