Alcohol is known to cause certain cancers, notably liver cancer. According to a recent study by the University of South Carolina in the USA, consumption of non-alcoholic beverages may also increase the risk of developing liver cancer. Find out more!
Sweetened beverages implicated in liver carcinogenesis
While sugary drinks are associated with a risk factor for obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, they can also lead toinsulin resistance and inflammation, which are strongly implicated in liver carcinogenesis. These are the findings of a study by the University of South Carolina in the USA, published in June 2022.
To reach this conclusion, the researchers analyzed data from over 90,000 post-menopausal women (aged 50 to 79) over a median follow-up of 18.7 years. These women consumed sweetened beverages, particularly fruit drinks and soft drinks.
A total of 205 women received a confirmed diagnosis of liver cancer.
Fruit drinks and soft drinks in the firing line
According to the study results, women who consumed at least one sugar-sweetened beverage per day had a 78% higher risk of developing liver cancer than those who drank fewer than 3 servings per month. » Our results suggest that sweetened beverage consumption is a potential risk factor for liver cancer in postmenopausal women, » conclude the researchers.
While the study focused solely on post-menopausal women, the University of South Carolina researchers say that additional studies in men and diverse populations are needed to examine the association between liver cancer and sugary drinks in greater depth.