Research links drinking very hot beverages to increased oesophageal cancer risk

Scientists have found that drinking very hot beverages raises the risk of a type of throat cancer called oesophageal cancer. Studies from Iran, East Africa, South America, and Asia all reached similar conclusions. In 2016, the World Health Organization's cancer research agency classified drinks above 65°C as "probably carcinogenic," meaning they may cause cancer. One East African study showed that very hot drinks nearly doubled the cancer risk compared with hot drinks. The same study found that drinking quickly, in under two minutes, also increased risk. Researchers believe that repeated heat damage to cells in the throat may lead to cancer over time. Letting drinks cool below 65°C before drinking appears to remove this particular risk.