Many of us have a trusted ritual: a steaming cup that comforts us before work, after a meal, or during a quiet moment alone. But questions about the kilns of temperature and health recently resurfaced: do hot drinks really cause cancer?
Short answer: the science is nuanced. There is evidence that very hot beverages, usually defined as temperatures around or above 65-70°C (149-158°F), may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers in areas of the upper digestive tract. This association comes from population studies and is not a blanket indictment against all hot drinks. Temperature, like many lifestyle factors, interacts with other risk elements such as tobacco use, alcohol, and overall diet.
What does the research say?
Major health organizations have weighed in on the topic with cautious language. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies very hot beverages as potentially carcinogenic to humans when typically consumed at very high temperatures. This classification reflects observed associations in studies rather than proven causation. It also emphasizes that the risk appears most relevant where hot drinks are drunk at temperatures that can directly irritate the lining of the throat and esophagus over time.
So, does this mean your daily latte is dangerous? Most clinicians would say not if you avoid regularly burning your tongue or throat. The risk seems linked to chronic exposure at extreme temperatures rather than the beverage itself. Tea, coffee, and other hot drinks contain compounds—antioxidants, polyphenols, caffeine—that have several potential health benefits when consumed in typical amounts. The key question is not “if you drink hot beverages,” but “how hot are they, and how often are you drinking them at those temperatures?”
Practical guidance for safer sipping
- Let it cool a moment. If you typically sip at temperatures above 65°C, try waiting 30 seconds to a minute before drinking. This small pause can significantly reduce the risk of thermal injury with repeated exposure.
- Use a temperature-friendly cup. A mug with a wide rim can cool faster than a narrow vessel, helping you reach a more moderate temperature more quickly.
- Alternate sipping patterns. If you’re someone who inhales steam as you fetch your drink, consider smaller sips and shorter intervals between temperatures. This reduces direct contact with the hottest surfaces of the mouth and throat.
- Mind your overall pattern. If you smoke or drink alcohol heavily, or have persistent gastroesophageal reflux, these factors can amplify the potential harms of hot beverage consumption. Moderation and balance matter.
- Choose your beverages with care. If you prefer very hot drinks, consider brewing or steeping at slightly lower temperatures and letting the beverage rest briefly before enjoying.
Why the conversation matters beyond cancer risk
Dialogue about hot beverage temperatures isn’t only about cancer. It touches on everyday habits, comfort, cultural practices, and even accessibility. For many, hot drinks symbolize hospitality and routine—a source of solace during busy days or cold weather. Dialogues about safety should respect personal preferences while providing clear, evidence-based guidance to minimize risk without erasing the rituals people love.
Bottom line
There is some evidence linking very hot beverages to a higher risk of certain cancers in the upper digestive tract, but this is largely about extreme temperatures and chronic exposure. For most people, enjoying tea or coffee at a comfortable temperature and in moderation is not a cancer risk in itself. If you’re concerned, practice small, simple steps to cool your drink slightly and savor the process as part of a mindful daily routine.
Related considerations
Hot beverages can be part of a healthy lifestyle when paired with balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and avoidance of other high-risk behaviors. If you have specific health concerns or a family history of esophageal or stomach conditions, discuss your beverage habits with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
