A UN research agency announced that hot beverages "may" cause esophageal cancer. According to AFP, Christopher Wild, director of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), stated: "The results of this research indicate that very hot beverages are one of the possible factors for the occurrence of esophageal cancer. (In this research) it has been established that the (very high) temperature of the beverage is the cancer-causing factor, not the beverage itself." A spokesperson for the UN cancer agency also announced that if coffee is consumed at the appropriate temperature, it is not carcinogenic. This institution has reviewed over a thousand scientific studies regarding possible links between cancer and coffee, as well as mate, another popular herbal beverage in South America. Both of these beverages have been listed as "possibly carcinogenic to humans" since 1991. However, evidence gathered since then indicates that neither of these beverages is related to cancer risk. Although there is evidence showing that both coffee and mate (and other beverages) may "possibly" cause esophageal cancer if their temperature exceeds 65 degrees Celsius. The International Agency for Research on Cancer emphasized that studies in areas such as China, Iran, Turkey, and South America, where tea, mate, and coffee are consumed at very high temperatures (around 70 degrees Celsius), show that the risk of developing esophageal cancer is higher. In this regard, the agency stated that "drinking very hot beverages above 65 degrees Celsius may be one of the factors contributing to esophageal cancer."
Hot Tea as a Possible Cause of Esophageal Cancer in Iran
A UN research agency has indicated that consuming very hot beverages, particularly in countries like Iran, may increase the risk of esophageal cancer. The findings suggest that it is the temperature of the drinks, rather than the drinks themselves, that could be harmful. This information is significant as it highlights a potential health risk associated with cultural drinking habits in Iran.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The IARC announced that consuming very hot beverages, particularly in countries like Iran, may increase the risk of esophageal cancer due to the high temperatures at which they are consumed. The research indicates that it is the temperature of the beverages, rather than the beverages themselves, that poses a risk.
- Beverages consumed above 65 degrees Celsius may contribute to esophageal cancer risk.
- Countries like Iran, where tea is traditionally consumed at high temperatures, are particularly affected.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Esophageal cancer is a major health concern in Iran, and cultural practices around drinking hot beverages may contribute to its prevalence. Understanding the temperature-related risks can help in formulating public health strategies.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%