Regular consumption of drinks such as hot tea and coffee at very high temperatures increases the risk of esophageal cancer. Experts recommend waiting a few minutes before drinking to allow the beverage to reach a safe temperature.
“Elchi” reports that a study involving approximately one million participants in the UK stands out as the most comprehensive research revealing the link between hot drinks and esophageal cancer.
Research shows that individuals who consume their drinks “very hot” face a risk of developing this cancer that is approximately three times higher than those who drink them “hot”.
Experts emphasize that despite the risk, the overall rate of cancer development remains low. It is noted that boiling liquids passing through the esophagus before reaching the stomach damage the layer of cells lining it.
65°C and higher temperatures pose a risk
In a study conducted by the University of Oxford and published in the *International Journal of Cancer*, any drink at a temperature of 65°C or higher is classified as “very hot” and identified as posing a potential risk.
Based on data from 977,282 middle-aged men and women, the study also shows that consuming six or more hot drinks per day increases the risk.
It is noted that adding milk can cool drinks slightly, although milk-based tea or coffee can still remain very hot.
Tea made with freshly boiled water is close to the 100°C boiling point.
When poured into a cup, the temperature drops between 90°C and 95°C. Experts recommend waiting a few minutes before drinking to allow the beverage to reach a safe temperature.
Smoking and alcohol are the biggest risk factors
Fiona Osgun from Cancer Research UK emphasizes that the most important way to reduce the risk of esophageal cancer is to quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption. It is noted that smoking and alcohol are greater risk factors than hot drinks.
Symptoms of esophageal cancer include chest or throat pain, indigestion, nausea, and weight loss.
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