A new study suggests that women who regularly drink sugary beverages may face a much higher risk of developing oral cavity cancer, even if they don’t smoke or drink alcohol.
Sugary Drinks and Cancer Risk
Researchers have discovered that drinking just one sugar-sweetened beverage per week may raise the risk of oral cavity cancer (OCC) in women by nearly five times compared to those who rarely drink them. This finding comes from a study published in JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery, which analyzed data from over 160,000 women. Among them, 124 developed OCC.
Even in women who didn’t smoke or drink, the risk remained high. Those who had at least one sugary drink daily were 5.46 times more likely to develop OCC than women who consumed less than one sugary drink each month.
Oral cavity cancer includes cancers found on the tongue, gums, tonsils, and other parts of the mouth. While it’s more commonly seen in men and people who use tobacco or alcohol, experts are now noticing a rise in these cancers among non-smoking women. This trend has led scientists to explore other possible causes—like diet.
How Sugary Drinks Might Increase Cancer Risk
Sugary drinks include soda, fruit drinks, energy drinks, and sweetened teas. While most people know that these beverages can lead to cavities and other dental issues, experts believe there may be deeper health risks as well.
Dr. Brittany Barber, a head and neck surgeon and senior author of the study, explained that sugar may cause long-term inflammation in the mouth. Over time, this can damage cells, disrupt the balance of bacteria (the oral microbiome), and potentially lead to cancer.
Dr. Jason Auerbach, an oral surgeon, said that sugary drinks can also be acidic. This acidity may damage the soft tissues inside the mouth, making it easier for cancer to form. In addition, drinking lots of sugary beverages may increase insulin resistance and raise levels of a hormone called IGF-1, which has been linked to cancer growth.
While this study shows a strong connection, experts caution that it doesn’t prove sugary drinks directly cause cancer. The researchers only found a link—not a cause. Also, the study focused only on women, so results may not apply to men.
What This Means for You
Even though more research is needed, health professionals recommend reducing your intake of sugary drinks. Cutting back can help lower your risk of cavities, gum disease, and possibly even cancer.
“Too much sugar is never good for your mouth,” said Dr. Auerbach. “It causes cavities, gum inflammation, and in some cases, it could set the stage for something more serious.”
People who are already at higher risk of oral cancer—such as smokers or those with a family history—should be especially cautious about what they drink.
However, the study doesn’t suggest you need to cut out sugary drinks completely. Having a soda or sweet tea now and then isn’t likely to cause harm. But drinking them regularly may raise your risk over time.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Oral Health
- Cut Back on Sugar: Choose water or unsweetened drinks instead of soda or juice.
- Visit the Dentist Regularly: A dental check-up can help spot early signs of oral cancer.
- Watch for Warning Signs: Pay attention to sores that don’t heal, persistent pain, or lumps in the mouth.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to reduce inflammation and keep your mouth healthy.
The Bottom Line
This new research suggests that sugary drinks might be more harmful than we thought—especially for women. While an occasional soda is fine, making healthier choices could help protect your mouth and your overall health.
If you’re concerned about oral cancer or your diet, talk to your doctor or dentist. Being informed helps you make smarter decisions for your body.
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