For decades, researchers have been investigating the possible links between coffee consumption and cancer risk.

While many studies have been conducted, much remains unknown.

In 2016, an expert panel from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a part of the World Health Organization (WHO), concluded that there wasn’t enough evidence to classify coffee as a carcinogen. This decision was based on the available data at the time.

Recently, coffee’s potential link to cancer has been back in the spotlight, particularly following a California court ruling on coffee warnings. The ruling was about acrylamide, a chemical formed during the coffee roasting process, which has sparked concerns among coffee drinkers. But what do you, as a coffee lover, need to understand about the coffee-cancer connection? Here, American Cancer Society researchers Susan Gapstur, PhD, and Marjorie McCullough, ScD, provide valuable insights from the research available.

What Does Research Reveal About Coffee and Cancer?

Overall Findings

Studies have found that coffee drinking is associated with a reduced risk of dying from all causes. However, the connection between coffee and cancer, whether in general or for specific types of cancer, remains unclear. The expert working group convened by the IARC in 2016 reviewed all available human and laboratory research and concluded that there was insufficient evidence to classify coffee as a carcinogen. They also found that coffee consumption is not linked to an increased risk of pancreatic, or prostate cancers.

Potential Benefits for Certain Cancers

However, there is some evidence that coffee consumption may lower the risk of uterine endometrial and liver cancers. The evidence for other types of cancer is still deemed inadequate, due to inconsistent results across studies and concerns about data quality. Additionally, the potential confounding factor of tobacco use in coffee drinkers must be considered. Since many coffee drinkers also smoke, it is hard to isolate the effects of coffee from tobacco use, especially for cancers that are strongly related to smoking. Research has shown that coffee was once thought to increase the risk of bladder cancer, but this was later linked to smoking rather than coffee itself.

Is Coffee Linked to a Lower Cancer Risk?

Recent Findings

New studies suggest that coffee may indeed lower the risk of several types of cancer, including head and neck, colorectal and liver cancer. However, the exact mechanisms behind these potential benefits are not yet fully understood. Coffee contains hundreds of biologically active compounds, including caffeine, flavonoids, lignans, and other polyphenols. These compounds have been shown to increase energy expenditure, reduce cellular damage, and promote anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, some studies have found that coffee may help regulate genes involved in DNA repair and inhibit metastasis.

Impact on Insulin Resistance and Diabetes

There is also evidence that regular coffee consumption can reduce the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes—two conditions that are linked to a higher risk of developing colorectal, liver and endometrial cancers.

What Is Acrylamide and Its Role in Cancer Risk?

Acrylamide in Coffee

Acrylamide is a chemical that forms during high-heat cooking processes, such as roasting coffee beans. It is also found in other foods like French fries, toasted bread, and snack foods like chips, crackers, and cookies. Additionally, acrylamide is present in tobacco products. In 2002, Swedish researchers discovered that acrylamide could form from asparagine, an amino acid, and sugar during high-temperature cooking. This finding led to increased scrutiny of acrylamide’s potential role in cancer development.

Scientific Classification

The IARC classifies acrylamide as a “probable carcinogen,” based on studies that show its genotoxic effects in animals. However, studies conducted in 2011 and 2014 found no clear link between dietary acrylamide and cancer risk in humans.

The Bottom Line: Should You Be Concerned About Coffee?

Health Benefits and Uncertainties

Dear Lykkers! While the research indicates that there may be health benefits to drinking coffee, particularly in terms of reducing the risk of certain cancers, the risks remain uncertain. Further research is needed to fully understand the biological mechanisms behind coffee’s potential cancer-reducing effects and its relationship with acrylamide exposure.

Additional Considerations for Cancer Prevention

When it comes to reducing cancer risk, it is essential to focus on the most significant contributors. Preventing smoking initiation and promoting smoking cessation remain the most effective strategies for reducing cancer-related deaths. In addition to avoiding smoking, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly minimize cancer risk. Maintaining a healthy body weight, being physically active, limiting alcohol consumption, and consuming a mostly plant-based diet are key factors in reducing cancer risk.

If concerns about acrylamide exposure persist, it may be worth considering limiting the intake of foods that tend to contain higher levels, such as French fries, chips, and cookies. This recommendation aligns with the American Cancer Society’s dietary guidelines. Ultimately, while coffee may offer some health benefits, it is important to balance consumption with an overall healthy lifestyle for the best protection against cancer.