Drinking a hot beverage is a common ritual that many people around the world embrace. It is common to consume hot drinks such as coffee, tea, and hot chocolate to warm up or relax after a long day.

However, recent studies have suggested that there might be a possible link between drinking hot beverages regularly and developing cancer. The studies prompted an intense debate in the medical community, with some experts disagreeing with the findings. This article delves into the research that has been conducted so far and examines the possible connection between hot drinks and cancer.

Types of Cancer Linked with Hot Drinks

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified drinking hot drinks as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” This means that there is some evidence suggesting that drinking beverages at very high temperatures may cause cancer. According to the IARC, the types of cancer most commonly linked to hot beverages are:.

Esophageal cancer
Gastric cancer
Breast cancer

Esophageal Cancer

The esophagus is a tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Drinking very hot liquids can irritate the cells in the esophagus and lead to damage over time.

This damage may eventually cause abnormal cells to grow and form tumors that can become cancerous. According to the IARC, drinking beverages above 65°C can increase the risk of esophageal cancer by up to eight times. Esophageal cancer is more common in men than women and usually occurs in people over the age of 50.

Symptoms of esophageal cancer include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and weight loss.

Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer, also known as stomach cancer, is a disease in which malignant cells form in the lining of the stomach. Drinking very hot liquids can damage the cells in the stomach and increase the risk of developing this type of cancer.

According to a study conducted in China, drinking beverages above 65°C can increase the risk of gastric cancer by up to two times. Additionally, the IARC has classified drinking mate, a traditional South American tea that is served at very high temperatures, as “probably carcinogenic to humans” due to its link with gastric cancer.

Breast Cancer

Research has also suggested that drinking very hot liquids may increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

According to a study conducted in the United States, women who drank hot tea regularly (at least once a day) and consumed it at very high temperatures had a higher risk of developing breast cancer. However, this research is still in its early stages, and more studies need to be conducted to confirm the findings.

Limitations of the Studies

While the studies that have been conducted so far suggest that there is a link between hot drinks and cancer, there are still some limitations to the research. For instance, most of the studies that have been conducted have relied on self-reported data.

This means that the participants were asked to remember how often they drank hot drinks and at what temperatures. Additionally, most of the studies have been conducted in specific populations, such as in China and South America. Therefore, it is still unclear whether the findings can be applied to other population groups around the world.

Other Factors that Affect Cancer Risk

It is also important to note that there are other factors that can affect a person’s risk of developing cancer. These include:.

Genetics
Age
Diet
Smoking
Alcohol consumption

Conclusion

The link between hot drinks and cancer is still a topic of intense debate in the medical community. While some experts believe that there is a clear connection between the two, others disagree with the findings.

Nevertheless, it is important for people to be aware of the potential risks and to moderate their consumption of hot beverages. This can include allowing the drink to cool before consuming it or switching to a cold beverage.