Drinking 6 Cups of Coffee Daily Lowers Prostate Cancer Risk

When it comes to reducing your risk of prostate cancer, especially the aggressive kind, you might be surprised by what recent science says—not about pills or procedures, but your daily coffee habit.

According to a long-term study by Harvard scientists published in 2011, men who drink six or more cups of coffee per day over two decades had nearly a 20% lower risk of developing prostate cancer—and a 60% lower risk of lethal prostate cancer—compared to non-drinkers.

What the Harvard Study Found

Researchers from Harvard University tracked 47,911 men over 20 years, collecting data on their regular coffee intake. The results were clear: coffee consumption—both regular and decaffeinated—was linked to a significant reduction in prostate cancer risk.

Compared to those who drank no coffee:

• Men drinking six or more cups daily had a 19.9% lower risk of any prostate cancer.
• They also showed a striking 60% lower risk of developing lethal prostate cancer.
• Even one to three cups per day was associated with a 30% reduced risk of fatal disease.

How the Research Was Conducted

The investigation, published in The Journal of the National Cancer Institute, is the first large-scale study to identify an inverse link between coffee drinking and prostate cancer risk. Scientists monitored participants’ coffee consumption through regular self-reported surveys over the two-decade span.

The team did not find evidence that the effect was limited to caffeinated coffee. Both regular and decaf drinkers saw similar protective trends, meaning compounds beyond caffeine may play a role.

Why Coffee Might Protect Against Prostate Cancer

Coffee is one of the richest dietary sources of antioxidants, which help combat cellular damage and inflammation. Other research has already tied coffee consumption to a lower risk of Type 2 diabetes, adding to the evidence that regular intake can support metabolic and long-term health.

While researchers aren’t advising men to dramatically increase their coffee intake, the findings suggest that those who already drink multiple cups a day may have added protection against a serious disease—with no need for concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cups of coffee per day were linked to lower prostate cancer risk?

Drinking six or more cups of coffee daily was associated with a nearly 20% lower risk of developing prostate cancer, and a 60% reduced risk of lethal forms. Even one to three cups per day showed a 30% lower risk of fatal prostate cancer.

Does it matter if the coffee is caffeinated or decaffeinated?

No. The study found that both regular (caffeinated) and decaffeinated coffee were linked to reduced prostate cancer risk, suggesting that factors other than caffeine may be responsible for the protective effect.

What type of prostate cancer risk was most affected?

The greatest reduction was seen in lethal (fatal) prostate cancer risk—60% lower among men who drank six or more cups daily. The risk of any prostate cancer was 19.9% lower in the same group.

How long was the study conducted?

The research followed 47,911 men over a period of 20 years, making it one of the longest and most comprehensive studies on coffee consumption and prostate cancer risk.

Should men start drinking more coffee to prevent cancer?

The study does not recommend increasing coffee intake specifically for cancer prevention. However, it suggests that current coffee drinkers—especially those having several cups a day—may already be experiencing some protective benefits.

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