Study links very hot drinks to increased risk of oesophageal cancer
Unbiased summary
A large study by Oxford University, involving nearly a million UK participants, found that regularly drinking beverages at 65°C or above was associated with about a threefold higher risk of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma compared to warm drinks. The study, published in the International Journal of Cancer, also linked consuming six or more hot drinks daily to increased risk. Experts stress that the overall absolute risk of this cancer remains low. They advise letting drinks cool to a comfortable temperature before drinking. The research was partially funded by Cancer Research UK and adds to existing evidence on the potential harm of very hot beverages.
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Coverage by outlet
The Mirror
centre-left
Angle
Frames the risk as a 'simple mistake' that could increase cancer risk, with practical advice for readers.
Bias
Emphasises the potential danger of hot drinks and highlights specific behaviours like black tea or herbal teas without milk. Uses the phrase 'increasing your risk of cancer' prominently, but remains factual. Slightly downplays the low absolute risk by focusing on relative increases.
BBC News
centre-left
Angle
Provides a balanced, scientific account with caution about the low absolute risk and practical cooling advice.
Bias
Sticks closely to the study's findings and expert quotes, including exact temperatures and cooling times. Plays down alarm by repeatedly noting the low overall risk. Emphasises the need for further research. Deviates minimally, only slightly leaning toward reassuring tone but remains objective.
Daily Mail
right
Angle
Sensationalises the findings with 'deadly' cancer and 'major study', focusing on prevention percentages.
Bias
Uses emotionally charged language like 'deadly oesophageal cancer' and 'extra hot' to amplify threat. Emphasises that 14% of cases could be prevented, but omits context of absolute risk. Includes survival statistics to heighten concern. Strays from neutral by implying immediate danger for everyday habits.
The Sun
right
Angle
Pushes a fear-driven narrative with 'terrifyingly-easy mistake' and 'deadliest cancer', using informal scare language.
Bias
Overuses dramatic terms like 'scalding' and 'burns' to link to DNA damage. Highlights the 'one in seven' avoidable statistic but does not contextualise the rarity of the cancer. Omits the overall low risk and the funding by Cancer Research UK. Strays significantly by prioritising shock value over balanced reporting.