08/09/2025
Unlock the science behind how the temperature of your favorite beverages—not the drinks themselves—could influence your cancer risk.
In this video, Dr. Sandeep Jassal delves into global research, including the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) findings, to explain why very hot drinks (above ~65 °C/149 °F) are classified as probably carcinogenic to humans, specifically linked to esophageal cancer.
He also breaks down:
The mechanism—how repeated thermal injury to the esophageal lining may promote malignancy.
Statistical insights like the nearly 90% increase in esophageal cancer risk associated with drinking 700 mL of tea daily at ≥ 60 °C (~140 °F)
A landmark UK study showing that consuming 8+ cups of very hot beverages a day could raise the risk of esophageal (food-pipe) cancer by up to sixfold
How region and culture matter—drinking habits in parts of Asia, the Middle East, South America, and East Africa (like maté at ~70 °C) may heighten risk
Reassuring findings: beverages like coffee and maté at normal or cooler temperatures do not appear to increase cancer risk and may even offer protective benefits against certain cancers (like liver and endometrial)
Practical safety tips: let hot drinks cool, stir, sip slowly, or add milk to lower temperature before drinking.
Dr. Jassal emphasizes the importance of staying informed, balancing benefit and risk, and enjoying beverages safely.
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