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'Very hot' drinks can increase the risk of developing oesophageal cancer, largest study finds

Researchers found very hot drinks were linked to about three times higher oesophageal cancer risk, while six or more hot drinks a day also raised risk.

  • The largest study of its kind, led by experts from Oxford Population Health, concluded that consuming very hot drinks significantly increases the risk of oesophageal SCC, based on data from around 980,000 adults.
  • Experts believe very hot drinks damage the oesophagus lining, and international research previously linked hot beverages like mate in South America to similar issues; the International Agency classified temperatures above 65C as "probably carcinogenic."
  • Data from 977,282 middle-aged participants revealed those who enjoyed hot drinks faced a higher risk of cancer, while those who drank them very hot faced an even higher risk compared to those who preferred warm beverages.
  • Fiona Osgun, head of health information at Cancer Research, stated the risk remains relatively low in the UK while research adds to evidence that very hot drinks could increase oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma risk; people have around a 1% lifetime risk.
  • Dr Keren Papier, lead researcher at Oxford Population Health, noted "more research is now needed to identify the exact drink temperatures linked to this increased risk," while experts emphasize avoiding smoking and cutting down on alcohol remain the most important risk-reduction methods.
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Those who drink coffee or tea too hot have a higher risk of esophagus cancer.

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The Independent broke the news in London, United Kingdom on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
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