A new study has revealed that consuming very hot drinks on a daily basis significantly raises the risk of esophageal cancer.
According to research published on a medical website, people who drink eight or more cups of extremely hot tea or coffee daily are nearly six times more likely to develop esophageal cancer compared to those who avoid such hot drinks.
The study, conducted in the UK, analyzed data from nearly half a million participants.
Findings showed that very hot beverages can damage the lining of the esophagus, and over time, this damage increases the chances of cancer development.
Researchers noted that the risk is not linked to the type of beverage but to its temperature. A large sip (about 20 ml) of a drink at 65°C can raise the esophageal temperature by nearly 12°C, which is considered dangerously high.
In contrast, smaller sips are relatively safer, and letting drinks cool down reduces the risk significantly.
Experts recommend avoiding very hot beverages and suggest that drinks should be around 65°C or cooler to be safe. They also advised not to drink immediately after pouring but to wait or stir the cup to reduce the temperature.
Additionally, they emphasized drinking slowly in small sips rather than taking large gulps, as it helps protect the esophagus.
