Regularly consuming beverages at or above 65 degrees Celsius roughly triples the risk of developing oesophageal cancer, according to Oxford University researchers publishing in the International Journal of Cancer. While the overall lifetime risk remains low, steaming hot liquid can damage the cell lining of the food pipe on the way down to the stomach.
Oxford University Study Links Scalding Beverages to Esophageal Damage
Researchers analyzing data from nearly a million middle-aged individuals found that drinking very hot tea or coffee significantly elevates the incidence of oesophageal cancer. The study, funded by Cancer Research UK and detailed in the International Journal of Cancer, defines any beverage served at 65 degrees Celsius or higher as posing a potential risk. When a liquid reaches these temperatures, it can damage the cell lining of the food pipe on the way down to the stomach.
Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius (212 degrees Fahrenheit). Once poured from a freshly boiled kettle into a cup, the temperature typically lowers to around 90 and 95 degrees Celsius. Even adding cold milk to a steaming brew may still be far too hot, leaving consumers vulnerable to scalding of the gullet. A separate study examining 118 young adults during multiple black coffee tastings found that most individuals only perceived a drink as too hot if it reached 70 degrees Celsius or higher. Meanwhile, one takeaway coffee cup manufacturer recommends serving temperatures between 49 and 60 degrees Celsius for hot coffee on the go, though requests for “extra hot” preparations can be served at over 82 degrees Celsius, says MTPak Coffee.
Global Epidemiological Parallels and Consumption Thresholds
The scale of the Oxford research—encompassing 977,282 participants—makes it the largest to date to establish the link. Individuals who reported consuming six or more hot drinks per day also raises the risk. Lead researcher Dr. Keren Papier pointed out that previous investigations in South America involving a very hot herbal infusion known as mate had already revealed a similar connection between hot beverages and oesophageal cancer. However, Dr. Papier emphasized that more research is now needed to identify the exact drink temperatures linked to this increased risk.
Public health authorities stress that while the relative risk is around a three times higher for regular consumers of very hot liquids compared to warm beverage drinkers, the overall chances of developing this cancer are low. Squamous cell oesophageal cancer is rare, with around 1% of the population in the UK facing a lifetime risk of being diagnosed with this type of cancer. Experts calculate that eliminating the consumption of very hot beverages could potentially prevent roughly 10% to 20% of oesophageal cancer diagnoses. Nonetheless, other elements present a greater hazard for this malignancy, and Fiona Osgun, representing Cancer Research UK, underlined that abstaining from smoking and moderating alcohol intake remain the primary preventative measures against this form of cancer.
In Plain English: The Clinical Takeaway
- Thermal Trauma: Drinking liquids at 65°C or hotter can damage the cell lining of your food pipe.
- The Simple Fix: Allow your tea or coffee to sit for a few minutes after pouring until it’s comfortable to drink rather than drinking it while it’s still very hot.
- Contextual Risks: While hot liquids raise the risk, established factors like smoking and alcohol use are more important ways to reduce the risk of this cancer type.
Contraindications & When to Consult a Doctor
Weight loss, persistent heartburn, indigestion, and discomfort or pain felt in the throat or chest can all be warning signs of oesophageal cancer.
References
- International Journal of Cancer: Oxford University Hot Beverage and Esophageal Risk Study.
- Cancer Research UK: Public Health Guidance on Esophageal Cancer Prevention.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any health concerns or symptoms.
