A new study released this week has identified a link between daily consumption of sugary soft drinks and an increased risk of stomach cancer. The research, published Wednesday, found that people who drink soda every day may be more than twice as likely to develop the disease compared to those who rarely consume it.
The findings arrive as city residents seek relief from the August heat, with many turning to cold beverages from bodegas and corner stores. At a Park Slope deli Tuesday afternoon, several teenagers lined up for bottles of soda and iced teas after school let out.
According to the study, two-thirds of Americans — including a majority of children — regularly consume sweetened soft drinks. Researchers warn that this habit, combined with other risk factors such as smoking and diet high in processed foods, could contribute to higher rates of stomach cancer.
Dr. Stephen Lee, a gastroenterologist at NYU Langone, said Wednesday that while the study does not prove causation, the correlation is significant. "We encourage moderation, especially for young people," he said. The American Beverage Association has not yet commented on the findings.
Despite the warnings, local shops report that soda sales remain steady, especially during summer's peak. Several store owners in Queens and the Bronx noted no drop in demand this week, even as news of the study circulated on social media.