Daily Sugary Drinks Linked to Stomach Cancer Risk
Drinking sugary beverages every day may be linked to a higher risk of stomach cancer, according to research. Researchers found that daily consumers had nearly twice the risk compared with people who drank them less than once a month.
The study appeared in Gastro Hep Advances. Study author Andrew Chan said the research is the first to identify a clear association between sugary drink intake and stomach cancer. However, the findings do not prove that these drinks directly cause the disease.
Study Examines More Than 112,000 People
Researchers reviewed health and lifestyle data from about 112,000 people. During the study period, 278 participants developed stomach cancer. The team found a significant link between daily sugary drink consumption and stomach cancer risk. However, the association does not establish cause and effect.
Low-Calorie Drinks Show Different Results
The study did not find a higher stomach cancer risk among people who consumed artificially sweetened or low-calorie drinks. Artificially sweetened carbonated beverages also showed no apparent increase in risk.
Early findings suggested these drinks might have a lower risk association. However, researchers need more studies before drawing conclusions.
These findings add to earlier research on sugary beverages and cancer. Previous studies have linked high intake with colorectal, breast, and liver cancers. Evidence involving stomach cancer has remained more limited.
Why Further Research Matters
The latest findings add to growing concerns about frequent sugary drink consumption worldwide. Therefore, researchers want to understand how these beverages may affect long-term health over time.
Gastrointestinal cancers remain a major global health concern. Chan highlighted the need for more research into the possible effects of high sugary drink intake.
For now, the study supports awareness rather than definite conclusions. People can consider choosing water or other unsweetened drinks more often as part of a healthy balanced diet.
