Cancer
Coffee consumption and cancers at other sites
No link between coffee and skin cancer
Research does not link coffee consumption with skin cancer. However, a couple of studies suggest that caffeine may protect cancer cells against the harmful effects of UVB radiation.
In 2008, a study in mice reported that caffeine added to drinking water, or placed directly onto the skin, induced death of cells damaged by UVB irradiation36. In 2009, the same work on human skin cell cultures showed that caffeine doubled the death rate of cells damaged by UVBs, hence potentially decreasing the risk of cancer37.
Coffee and lung cancer risk: more studies needed
A recent review of studies looking at coffee and lung cancer has reported an increased risk of lung cancer in those with a high coffee intake38. Individuals reporting an intake of between 5-7 cups daily had a 27% higher risk of developing lung cancer. However, further evidence is required to clarify this association, due to the potential confounding effects of smoking and other factors.
Some evidence for lower occurrence of brain tumours in coffee consumers
Consumption of at least 5 cups of coffee or tea a day, compared with no tea or coffee, has been associated with a 40% lower risk of brain tumours39. This association was not seen with decaffeinated coffee.
A European study40 had similar results, showing a 34% lower risk of developing a brain tumour in individuals drinking more than one cup of tea or coffee a day, compared with those drinking less.
More research is needed to clarify the link between coffee and brain tumours.
