Saralnama
Drinking very hot beverages above 65°C has been classified as probably carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer since 2016, with evidence linking such drinks to oesophageal cancer but not throat or stomach cancer. Studies mainly from South America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia showed a higher risk associated with traditional hot drinks like maté. A recent large UK study of nearly half a million adults confirmed that consuming eight or more cups daily of very hot tea or coffee increases the risk of oesophageal cancer nearly sixfold compared to non-drinkers. The risk is believed to arise from heat damaging the oesophagus lining, potentially accelerating cancer development, as supported by animal studies. Factors such as sip size and drinking speed also influence risk, with large sips causing greater temperature increases inside the oesophagus. Experts recommend allowing hot drinks to cool and taking small sips to reduce potential harm. The ideal drinking temperature balancing flavour and safety has been suggested around 58°C. This research highlights the importance of temperature in hot beverage consumption and its health implications. (Updated 22 Aug 2025, 00:10 IST; source: link)