Hot Drinks Over 65°C Linked to Cancer Risk: WHO Warns Against Scalding Beverages

• Drinking beverages hotter than 65°C significantly increases the long-term risk of esophageal cancer, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of WHO.
• The risk is primarily due to the high temperature, not the type of beverage, as repeated exposure damages the esophagus lining, leading to chronic inflammation and abnormal cell changes.
• Studies indicate that this repeated injury can cause DNA errors and increase the likelihood of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
• Factors like drink temperature, consumption frequency, and lifestyle habits (smoking, alcohol) influence the overall risk.
• Experts advise waiting 3-5 minutes for hot drinks to cool below 65°C, taking small sips, and avoiding smoking or heavy alcohol use to protect the esophagus.

Why It Matters: Regularly consuming drinks above 65°C can damage the esophagus, increasing long-term cancer risk.