Scientists at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have found that drinking several cups of coffee a day can improve the survival rate of patients with colorectal cancer and reduce the risk of exacerbation of the disease. The drink's potential new tumor-fighting benefit is highlighted in an article published in JAMA Oncology.
Experts analyzed data on 1171 patients who were treated for metastatic cancer of the colon and rectum. Those who reported drinking two or more cups of coffee daily lived longer and delayed flare-ups compared to those who did not drink coffee. That said, drinking four cups of coffee was even more beneficial. In this case, the effect persisted even for a drink that did not contain caffeine.
While the study's findings do not provide an accurate understanding of the causal relationship, scientists believe that coffee may indeed contain substances, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, that have activity against advanced cancer. Experts do not yet give recommendations on the use of the drink to patients with tumors.
