Health Report Could you give up caffeine for six months?
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Nov 21, 2025 Professor Paul Robinson, an expert in Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, discusses groundbreaking findings from a trial on caffeine's effects on atrial fibrillation, revealing surprising links between coffee consumption and reduced recurrence rates. Meanwhile, Professor Sarah-Jean Dawson, a Clinical Oncologist, sheds light on the emerging field of liquid biopsies, exploring their potential for early cancer detection and monitoring treatment responses. Both guests highlight the future implications of their work for patient care, emphasizing both excitement and caution in these evolving fields.
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Coffee May Lower AF Recurrence
- A randomized trial found daily coffee reduced recurrent atrial fibrillation risk by 39% compared with abstinence over six months.
- Professor Christopher Wong warns results apply to about one cup daily and can't justify heavy consumption without further study.
Tell Patients Moderate Coffee Is Okay
- Patients with atrial fibrillation can be told they may safely consume coffee at trial amounts, roughly one cup per day.
- Avoid extrapolating safety to heavy intake; higher doses weren't tested and could differ in effect.
Benefit Might Come From Coffee Components
- Coffee's protective effect might not be due to caffeine alone because coffee contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Tolerance to caffeine's acute heart-rate effects may blunt long-term stimulatory impact on rhythm.