PARIS: A study of 100,000 French adults published in the British Medical Journal, reveals those consuming just 10g of sugar a day in drinks were 18 per cent more likely to get cancer. Women are particularly at risk, with the chances of breast cancer rising by 22 per cent.
The findings indicate that a small glass of fruit juice – viewed by many as a healthier alternative to energy drinks and soft drinks – could increase cancer risks as much as consuming a third of a can of cola or Red Bull.
The study looked at any beverage containing more than 5 per cent sugar, including carbonated soft drinks and pure fruit juices.
The researchers found every 100ml of sugary drink consumed was associated with an 18 per cent risk of a cancer diagnosis.
Those taking part in the study had an average age of 42, and kept a three day diet diary every two years.
In that period, almost 2,200 cases of cancer were diagnosed in those subjects, about 22 per 1,000 people.
Researchers said additives and chemicals added to some drinks may also contribute to the increase in reported cancer cases.
Experts said increase intake of sugary drinks may indicate an overall poor diet, that could also be raising the risk of obesity and related health conditions.
A recent Cancer Research UK study claimed excess weight is now a bigger cause of bowel, kidney, ovarian and liver cancer than tobacco.
(With inputs from The National)
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