Hot drink lovers have an increased risk of cancer - scientists

A new large-scale study conducted by scientists at the University of Oxford has found a link between regular consumption of very hot drinks and an increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. Analysis of data from nearly 980,000 adult participants in British studies showed that those who liked hot tea or coffee had about a 1.7 times higher risk. For those who preferred very hot drinks, the risk increased about threefold. Quantity also proved to be an important factor: people who drank six or more hot drinks daily had a 71% higher risk. Researchers suggest that constant exposure to very hot liquid irritates and damages esophageal tissues, causing inflammation and creating conditions for cellular abnormalities. However, the mechanism of the link requires further study. Previous work has focused on drinks with temperatures above 65 °C. The study does not call for giving up tea or coffee, but recommends letting drinks cool slightly before consumption.