Coffee may significantly reduce the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer - scientists

Tengrinews.kz — Scientists from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in the United States have found that regular coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and death from complications of liver disease. The results of the study were published in the journal Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, citing Gazeta.Ru.

The study included 354,957 participants from the UK Biobank who did not have cirrhosis or liver cancer at the start of the observation period. Scientists monitored their health for an average of 13 years.

The analysis showed that people who drank five or more cups of coffee a day had a 32 percent lower risk of developing cirrhosis, a 47 percent lower risk of liver cancer and a 42 percent lower risk of dying from liver disease compared with those who did not drink coffee.

At the same time, a positive effect was already observed among those who drank one to two cups a day, while the strongest effect was seen in the range of three to four cups. However, the authors emphasize that the results should not be seen as a recommendation to drink more than five cups of coffee daily.

To determine the possible mechanisms behind this link, the researchers also analyzed liver MRI data and blood test results. Coffee drinkers had less liver fat, iron, signs of fibrosis and inflammation. In addition, this group had higher levels of proteins associated with healthy liver function and lower concentrations of proteins linked to inflammation and tissue scarring.

Similar results were observed among both regular coffee drinkers and those who drank decaffeinated coffee. This suggests that the protective effect may be linked not only to caffeine, but also to other biologically active substances contained in the drink.

The scientists noted that the study was observational and does not prove that coffee itself prevents liver disease. According to them, the main prevention measures remain maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, regular physical activity, and controlling blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure.