Daily Sugar Intake Linked to Higher Gastric Cancer Risk: Study

A new study suggests that daily sugar intake from sweetened drinks may be linked to a higher risk of gastric cancer. Researchers found that people drinking at least one serving each day had 2.45 times the risk of gastric cancer.

The study examined health and diet data from 112,284 adults. Participants came from the Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study.

During that period, 278 participants developed gastric cancer.

What the researchers found

The study included regular soft drinks, lemonade, punch and sports beverages. One serving measured about 237 millilitres.

After adjusting for several health and lifestyle factors, daily consumers showed a higher gastric cancer risk. The association appeared in both women and men.

In addition, researchers found a link between higher fructose intake and gastric cancer.

However, the findings do not prove that sugary drinks directly cause cancer. The research was observational, so researchers studied existing habits rather than assigning people specific drinks.

The study also found no significant link between artificially sweetened beverages and gastric cancer. Therefore, more research is needed to understand why sugary drinks may be associated with this cancer.

What it means for health

Gastric cancer can develop in the stomach lining. Several factors may affect risk, including infection, smoking, diet and other health conditions.

For example, cutting back on sugary drinks can support better nutrition. Choosing water or unsweetened beverages can also reduce added sugar intake.

Meanwhile, people can focus on balanced meals and healthier drink choices.

This result may encourage readers to reconsider frequent sugary drink choices as part of healthier habits.

The findings highlight a possible link between daily sugary drinks and gastric cancer. Still, readers should view the results as an association, not proof of cause and effect.