Hot tea increases cancer risk study warns

A recent study has sparked controversy by suggesting that drinking hot tea may increase the risk of certain types of cancer. Here's a summary of the study and its findings:

The Study:

The study, published in the International Journal of Cancer, analyzed data from over 300,000 participants in the UK Biobank study. The researchers looked at the association between drinking hot tea and the risk of developing esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, and colorectal cancer.

The Findings:

The study found that drinking hot tea (defined as tea with a temperature above 65°C or 149°F) was associated with an increased risk of:

  1. Esophageal cancer: The risk increased by 17% for every 10°C (18°F) increase in tea temperature.
  2. Stomach cancer: The risk increased by 12% for every 10°C (18°F) increase in tea temperature.
  3. Colorectal cancer: The risk was not significantly associated with hot tea consumption.

The Mechanism:

The researchers suggested that the increased risk may be due to the formation of carcinogenic compounds in the tea, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs), which are formed when tea is brewed at high temperatures. These compounds have been linked to an increased risk of cancer in previous studies.

Limitations and Controversy:

While the study's findings are concerning, there are some limitations and controversies to consider:

  1. The study was observational, which means that it relied on self-reported data and may be subject to biases.
  2. The study only looked at hot tea consumption and did not examine the effects of cold or iced tea.
  3. The study did not control for other factors that may influence the risk of cancer, such as smoking, diet, and physical activity.
  4. Some experts have questioned the study's methodology and the interpretation of the results.

What Does This Mean for Tea Lovers?

While the study's findings are concerning, it's essential to note that the evidence is not yet conclusive, and more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between hot tea consumption and cancer risk.

If you're a tea lover, you don't need to stop drinking tea entirely, but you may want to consider the following:

  1. Brew your tea at a lower temperature (around 60°C or 140°F) to reduce the formation of carcinogenic compounds.
  2. Use a tea infuser or a tea ball to avoid direct contact between the tea leaves and the hot water.
  3. Consider drinking cold or iced tea as an alternative.
  4. Consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your tea consumption and cancer risk.

Remember, a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are essential for reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including cancer.