Hot Drinks & Cancer: WHO Warns Against Beverages Over 65°C

• WHO's IARC confirmed in 2016 that consuming beverages above 65°C significantly increases cancer risk.
• The danger stems from the high temperature itself, not specific chemicals in tea or coffee.
• Regularly drinking very hot liquids damages the oesophageal lining, causing chronic inflammation and cellular changes that can lead to oesophageal cancer.
• Factors like drink temperature, consumption frequency, smoking, and alcohol intake influence the cancer risk.
• To reduce risk, wait 3-5 minutes before drinking, check temperature (below 65°C), sip slowly, and avoid smoking/heavy alcohol.

Why It Matters: Avoid very hot beverages (>65°C) to prevent oesophageal cancer; let them cool and sip slowly.