Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Significantly Increase Oral Cancer Risk in Women, Study Reveals
New Research Highlights Concerning Link Between Sugary Drink Consumption and Oral Cavity Cancer
A comprehensive study published March 13, 2025, in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery has revealed a striking connection between sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and oral cancer risk in women. Researchers analyzed data from 162,602 women participating in the Nurses’ Health Study and Nurses’ Health Study II, following participants for 30 years. Medscape
Key Findings
The results are alarming: women who consumed one or more sugar-sweetened beverages daily had a 4.87 times higher risk of developing oral cavity cancer compared to those who consumed less than one such beverage monthly. This translates to an increase from 2 cases to 5 cases per 100,000 population — adding 3 more cases per 100,000. Medscape, Ovid
Most significantly, this increased risk persisted even when researchers limited their analysis to participants without traditional risk factors. When restricted to both nonsmokers or light smokers and nondrinkers or light drinkers, the risk of oral cavity cancer was even higher at 5.46 times the baseline risk. EatingWell, Ovid
Understanding the Connection
While sugar-sweetened beverages have previously been associated with colorectal and other gastrointestinal cancers, this study represents the first investigation into their connection with cancers of the head and neck. UPI The findings may help explain the increasing incidence of oral cavity cancer among individuals without traditional risk factors.
Dr. Arnaud Bewley, an associate professor who chairs the Department of Otolaryngology at UC-Davis Health, called the study “eye-opening” with “clear and compelling results.” He noted that “the high-sugar nature of the modern Western diet is being increasingly understood to be at the root of many chronic diseases.” UPI
Potential Mechanisms
Several mechanisms may explain how sugar-sweetened beverages increase oral cancer risk:
- High sugar consumption can lead to periodontitis (gum disease), which is associated with oral cancer Ovid
- Chronic inflammation from dental and gum disease may be a contributing factor UPI
- Alterations in the oral microbiome (the community of bacteria in the mouth) could play a role UPI
- Sugar may cause oral dysbiosis-inducing inflammation Ovid
- Increases in blood glucose and insulin levels could contribute to carcinogenesis (cancer formation) Ovid
Implications for Public Health
Lead researcher Dr. Brittany Barber, assistant professor of otolaryngology head and neck surgery at the University of Washington School of Medicine, emphasized that “Clinicians should be aware of both the oral health risks associated with consumption of sugary beverages and the emerging oral cavity cancer epidemic in women.” Heal-wa
This emerging data suggests that sugar-sweetened beverage intake could be an important factor in the development of oral cavity cancer, especially among women traditionally considered low-risk. The study emphasizes the need for further research in larger, more diverse populations. Oral Health Group
Limitations and Future Research
The authors acknowledge that the estimates lack precision due to the low number of events. Additionally, the study included only women, limiting generalizability to male patients. The study participants were primarily of European descent, necessitating examination of these associations in racially and ethnically diverse populations. Medscape
Prevention Recommendations
Based on these findings, consider these preventive measures:
- Limit consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages
- Choose water or unsweetened alternatives
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene
- Schedule regular dental check-ups
- Be aware of oral cancer warning signs
About Oral Cavity Cancer
Oral cavity cancer is less common than breast or colon cancer, with an annual incidence of approximately 4-4.3 cases per 100,000. However, its incidence is increasing among nonsmokers and young individuals without traditional risk factors worldwide. UPI
For more information about oral cancer risk factors and prevention, consult with your healthcare provider or dental professional.
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