A new study from the University of Washington has identified a troubling link between sugary soda consumption and oral cavity cancer (OCC). Researchers found that women who drink at least one full-sugar soft drink daily are nearly five times more likely to develop OCC compared to those who consume such beverages sparingly or not at all. Traditionally, OCC has been associated with older men who smoke and drink, but cases among women—including non-smokers—have been rising.
Sugary Soda Consumption Linked to Increased Oral Cancer Risk, Study Finds
Published in “JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery”, the study analyzed healthcare data from over 162,000 participants in the Nurses’ Health Study, identifying 124 cases of OCC. Findings revealed that individuals consuming one or more sugary sodas per day had a 4.87 times greater risk of OCC. For non-smokers and light drinkers, the risk was even higher—5.46 times more than those who consumed less than one soda per month.
OCC, which manifests as painful sores on the lips or gums and can spread down the throat, has a five-year survival rate of just 64.3%. In 2020 alone, there were 355,000 new OCC cases and 177,000 deaths worldwide. Despite being less common than breast or colon cancer, its mortality rate remains concerning.
High-Sugar Diets and Oral Cancer: A Growing Concern for Women
While the study establishes a strong correlation rather than direct causation, researchers hypothesize that high-sugar diets contribute to chronic inflammation, which may play a role in OCC development. Previous studies have linked excessive sugar intake to gum disease, a known risk factor for oral cancer.
Assistant professor Brittany Barber, who led the study, described the rising OCC rates among women as “alarming.” Given the declining OCC cases linked to smoking due to anti-smoking measures, sugary drinks may be an overlooked factor. More research is needed, but reducing or eliminating sugary sodas could be a preventive measure against OCC.
Summary:
A University of Washington study links sugary soda consumption to a higher risk of oral cavity cancer (OCC), especially among women. Daily soda drinkers face nearly five times the risk. Researchers suggest high sugar intake may cause chronic inflammation. While more research is needed, reducing sugary sodas may help prevent OCC.
