Seattle, Washington – A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Washington has unveiled a concerning connection between the consumption of sugary soda and the development of oral cancer. The study, which analyzed data from over 162,000 healthcare workers, found that women who consume at least one full-sugar soft drink per day are at a significantly higher risk of developing oral cavity cancer (OCC) compared to those who do not indulge in such beverages.
Traditionally associated with older men who smoke and drink heavily, cases of OCC have been on the rise among women, including those who are non-smokers and light drinkers. The five-year survival rate for OCC, a condition characterized by painful sores on the lips or gums that can spread to the throat if left untreated, stands at only 64.3 percent.
Published in the journal JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, the study found that individuals who consume at least one sugary soda beverage per day are nearly five times more likely to develop OCC than those who consume such drinks less than once a month. This association was even more pronounced among non-smokers and light drinkers, with those consuming one or more sugary sodas daily being over five times more likely to develop OCC.
While the study only establishes a correlation and not causation, the results are striking. Brittany Barber, an assistant professor of otolaryngology head and neck surgery at the University of Washington, expressed concern over the rising rates of OCC among women, emphasizing the need for further research into the potential link between sugary drinks and oral cancer.
The researchers hypothesize that diets high in added sugars may contribute to chronic inflammation, which has been linked to the development of gum disease and, subsequently, oral cancer. Despite a decrease in OCC cases related to smoking due to anti-smoking campaigns and legislation, the study highlights the need to consider the impact of sugary drinks on oral health.
In 2020, there were 355,000 new cases of OCC globally, resulting in 177,000 deaths. While OCC may be less common than other types of cancer, the high ratio of deaths to diagnoses underscores the severity of the disease. Cutting back on full-sugar sodas or eliminating them from one’s diet altogether may be a simple yet effective step in reducing the risk of developing oral cancer.
Further research is necessary to fully understand the connection between sugary drinks and oral cancer. In the meantime, individuals are encouraged to prioritize their oral health by making informed choices about their dietary habits.