High consumption of sodas and energy drinks may be fueling a rise in oral cancer—here’s what every Latino man needs to know.
For many Latino men, long workdays in construction, agriculture, and other labor-intensive jobs often mean relying on sugary sodas and energy drinks for a boost. However, emerging research suggests that these beverages might be contributing to a growing health crisis: the rise of oral cancer.
A study from the University of Washington analyzed public health data and found that consuming sugary drinks daily significantly increases the risk of oral cancer. While previous research focused on women, Latino men—who statistically consume more sugary beverages than other demographics—could be at an even higher risk.
Latinos, particularly men, are among the highest consumers of sugar-sweetened beverages in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 45% of Latino adults consume at least one sugary drink per day, compared to 35% of non-Latino whites. Among Latino men, the numbers are even higher, especially for those in physically demanding jobs who use these drinks as a quick source of energy.
The University of Washington study found that individuals who drank at least one sugary drink daily were nearly five times more likely to develop oral cancer compared to those who consumed less than one per month. This is alarming for Latino men, who are already at higher risk for health conditions like diabetes and obesity due to high sugar consumption.
Traditionally, oral cancer has been linked to smoking, heavy alcohol use, and human papillomavirus (HPV). However, cases are rising among non-smokers and younger individuals who do not fall into these traditional risk categories. Researchers now believe that diets high in sugar—especially from sodas, sweet teas, and energy drinks—may be a contributing factor.
A diet high in added sugars can cause chronic inflammation, which weakens the immune system and may promote the development of cancerous cells. The study highlights the “Western dietary pattern,” characterized by processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-fat diets, as a major risk factor for gastrointestinal and oral cancers.
“Our hypothesis is that diets with higher added sugar may contribute to chronic inflammation, which may, in turn, contribute to the risk of oral cavity cancer (OCC),” the researchers state.
Given the high consumption of sugary drinks among Latino men, it’s critical to raise awareness about healthier alternatives and preventive measures:
- Switch to Water or Natural Juices: Instead of sodas and energy drinks, opt for water infused with lime, natural fruit juices without added sugars, or coconut water for hydration.
- Check Sugar Content: Some drinks marketed as “healthy” or “natural” still contain high levels of added sugars. Reading labels can help in making better choices.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Oral cancer is often detected in later stages, making early screenings essential, especially for those consuming high-sugar diets.
- Balanced Diet: Incorporate whole foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to help reduce inflammation in the body.
The Latino community already faces significant health disparities, and the increasing cases of oral cancer linked to sugary drinks highlight the urgent need for action. Educational campaigns, workplace initiatives promoting healthier hydration choices, and culturally relevant outreach efforts can help protect Latino men from this growing health threat.
While further research is needed, one thing is clear: cutting back on sugary drinks can have profound benefits, not just for oral health, but for overall well-being. Making small changes today can lead to a healthier future for Latino men and their families.
