Very Hot Drinks May Damage the Esophagus and Increase Cancer Risk

Very hot liquids may damage cells on the inner surface of the esophagus. According to a study conducted in the United Kingdom, regularly drinking beverages such as tea and coffee at very high temperatures increases the risk of esophageal cancer.

The study found that people who drink their beverages very hot have an approximately threefold higher risk of developing esophageal cancer than those who consume tea or coffee at lower temperatures.

An Oxford University study published in the International Journal of Cancer classifies all beverages above 65 degrees Celsius as very hot and potentially risky. Data from 977,282 middle-aged men and women also showed that drinking six or more cups of hot beverages per day may increase the risk.