Green Tea May Prevent Lung Cancer

Can green tea prevent lung cancer?

A research conducted by Shan Medical University in Taiwan has revealed that drinking at least a cup of green tea per day might lower the risk of lung cancer. The rate of cancer is markedly lower in Asia compared to other areas of the globe and intake of green tea has been pinpointed as a possible reason.

Research has indicated that the polyphenols in green tea can hinder the growth of cancer cells. However, results with the study of humans needs more observations. In an ongoing study, researchers analyzed green tea intake, smoking, genetic predispositions and lung caner risk in over 500 people.

They discovered that non-smokers who did not drink tea had about five times the changes of getting lung cancer over those who did drink tea at least once a day. Moreover, smokers who did not drink green tea was 12 times as likely to get cancer as compared to those who drank green tea at least once per day.

The study genetic analysis found that a specific variant of the gene called IGFI was associated with increase intake of green tea and lower in cancer risk. Among participants without this variant, green tea intake had almost no effect on cancer risk.

Health experts have cautioned that regardless of the benefits of green tea, they do not outweigh the risk of smoking.

Although drinking green tea may have many benefits, it most not be used as a panacea for the ills of smoking. The best recommendation to prevent the dangers of smoking is to quit the habit.