After reviewing almost 1,000 case studies, scientists reached the conclusion that there is not enough evidence that hot coffee causes cancer.
The team of 23 scientists from different countries worked under a project sustained by the International Agency for Research on Cancer to review the results of a previous 1991 study.
Is Coffee Good or Bad?
The old theory was that coffee should be considered as a possible carcinogen. In reaction to this decision, other studies emerged showing that, in fact, coffee can bring a number of positive effects on the organism that strengthens a person against the risk of cancer.
Experts say that such an association between hot coffee and disease is difficult to prove because both of them have an extensive palette of effects and determinant factors. Having to connect much too many elements, scientists cannot draw a firm conclusion in affirming the general outcome of drinking coffee.
Some evidence shows that coffee can prevent pancreatic, colon and liver cancer. However, data is limited.
Hot Coffee and the Esophagi
Other studies affirm that hot coffee can cause esophageal cancer because the high temperature. This conclusion too can be easily contradicted by the fact that any other drink can be consumed hot and thus increase the risks of esophagi irritations.
In this particular case, scientists agree that the most probable causes for esophageal cancer are drinking alcohol and smoking.
The researchers tried then to connect the disease occurrence with its predominant locations, Asia, East Africa and South America, which led them to believe that the hot coffee consumption that is highly valued there might be the cause for the high cancer incidence.
Experts say that indeed, all hot beverages can cause injuries to the throat. Repeated injuries can lead to a more sensitive tissue which is in turn more vulnerable to processes involved in cancer development.
With all this contradictory evidence, scientists still agree that drinking hot fluids can lead to health risks.
As for the temperature that can lead to throat injuries, experts set a limit of 149 to 158 degrees. In the US, the average temperature is less than 140 degrees, which hopefully will help Americans in staying away from any discomfort and accidents.
From having a sour throat to cancer is a long way. Scientists prefer to stay with a more balanced recommendation, advising the general population to avoid the well-known bad habits and abuses that can account cause for certainty health problems.
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