Another latest study has confirmed the health benefits of green tea. A new study published in Japan this week found that drinking five or more cups of green tea a day could reduce the risk of developing advanced prostate cancer by 50%!
The research team from Japan’s health ministry surveyed 49,920 men aged 40-69 across Japan in 1990 and 1993 and followed up on their health until 2004, the National Cancer Centre said. During this time, 404 men were newly diagnosed with prostate cancer, of whom 114 had advanced cases, 271 were localized, and 19 were of an undetermined stage. An analysis found the risks of having advanced prostate cancer was 50% lower for men who drink five or more cups of green tea a day compared with those who have less than one cup.
The research group said: “Green tea was not associated with localised prostate cancer, but green tea may be associated with a decreased risk of advanced prostate cancer.”
What’s special in green tea? A substance called catechin in green tea is supposed to contribute towards reducing risks by curbing levels of testosterone, a male hormone seen as a risk factor to prostate cancer.
The incidence of prostate cancer is much lower in Asian than Western populations. The study started on the assumption that this may be linked to the high consumption of green tea in Asian populations, and the assumption seems to be proving correct.