Q: Does coffee affect cancer risk?

A: Although previously there was concern that coffee might increase risk of some cancers, recent larger, better-controlled studies show that for most cancers, up to six cups of coffee per day do not increase risk. Now research is underway evaluating whether coffee might help reduce cancer risk, either as a major source of antioxidants or by affecting specific steps in the process of cancer development. Coffee contains several natural compounds that in laboratory studies can reduce inflammation, inactivate carcinogens and help regulate cell growth. In some population studies, people who drink moderate or high amounts of coffee daily show modestly reduced risk of a wide range of cancers, such as endometrial cancer in one recent study. Yet despite promising laboratory evidence, the large NIH-AARP population study did not find any link between coffee of any type and breast cancer risk, and other population studies show mixed results about any potential link between coffee and lower risk of cancer, such as pancreatic and prostate cancers. Bottom line: unless advised otherwise for medical reasons, enjoy moderate amounts of coffee without fear of cancer risk if you like, but make it part of an overall healthy diet and weight control, which have stronger research support as effective ways to reduce cancer risk.