Hot drinks are often the go-to beverages for many of us, whether it’s the morning cup of coffee or the evening tea. However, there has been growing apprehension about the connection between consuming hot drinks and esophageal cancer.
Research has suggested that there may be a link between the two. In this article, we will explore this connection in more detail.
What is esophageal cancer?
Esophageal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the esophagus, the long muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. There are two main types of esophageal cancer, namely squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
Squamous cell carcinoma is often found on the upper part of the esophagus while adenocarcinoma is usually found on the lower part of the esophagus. In both cases, the cancer has the potential to spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.
The link between hot drinks and esophageal cancer
Several studies have investigated whether there is a connection between consuming hot drinks and esophageal cancer.
One study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that drinking more than 700ml of tea per day at a temperature of over 60°C increased the risk of esophageal cancer by 90%. Another study published in the British Journal of Cancer found that drinking very hot tea (over 70°C) was associated with an eight-fold increase in the risk of developing esophageal cancer compared to drinking cooler tea (less than 65°C).
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What causes esophageal cancer?
How does heat cause cancer?
The exact mechanism through which heat causes cancer is not yet fully understood. However, some theories suggest that consuming hot drinks can damage the lining of the esophagus, leading to inflammation and irritation.
This, in turn, can lead to the development of abnormal cells that can eventually become cancerous. Other theories suggest that heat can increase the production of certain enzymes or chemicals that can lead to cancer formation.
Other risk factors for esophageal cancer
While consuming hot drinks may increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer, it is not the only factor. Other known risk factors include:.
- Smoking or using tobacco products
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Obesity
- Poor nutrition
- Chronic acid reflux
- Barrett’s esophagus (a condition where the cells in the lining of the esophagus change, making them more prone to cancer)
How can you reduce your risk of developing esophageal cancer?
There are various measures you can take to reduce your risk of developing esophageal cancer:.
- Avoid or quit smoking or using tobacco products
- Drink alcohol in moderation
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Drink hot drinks at a temperature that is safe for consumption, i.e., 60°C or below
- Manage your weight
- Exercise regularly
- Treat acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) promptly
Conclusion
While the link between consuming hot drinks and esophageal cancer is not yet fully understood, the evidence thus far suggests that there may be a connection.
To reduce your risk of developing esophageal cancer, it is advisable to consume hot drinks at a safe temperature and also to take other measures to reduce your risk overall.
