Based on PubMed | Does drinking green tea reduce the risk of melanoma?

Drinking green tea is not proven to reduce melanoma risk, although laboratory studies suggest potential anti-cancer effects that are still unconfirmed in humans. ^{[1] [2]} In contrast, the strongest, well-established ways to lower melanoma risk remain sun protection (limiting ultraviolet exposure), avoiding indoor tanning, and regular skin checks. ^{[3] [4]}

What the evidence shows

• Experimental and lab research: Green tea’s main polyphenol, EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate), can slow melanoma cell growth and reduce cell migration in test tubes and animal models, through pathways involving inflammation control (e.g., NF-κB, IL‑1β, COX‑2, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition). ^{[5] [6]} These findings are biologically plausible but do not establish prevention in people. ^{[5] [6]}
• Human studies: Reviews of clinical and epidemiologic research report mixed or inconclusive results for cancer prevention with green tea, with no clear evidence that it prevents melanoma specifically. ^[1] Evidence summaries indicate possible benefits for some cancers but emphasize inconsistency and the need for better human trials; importantly, all-cause mortality may be lower with green tea consumption, but cancer-specific protection is not demonstrated. ^{[7] [2]}

What major centers recommend

• Leading cancer centers note that green tea may have general health benefits but do not endorse it as a proven strategy to prevent melanoma due to insufficient clinical evidence. ^[2] These sources also emphasize that sun protection is the most reliable prevention approach for melanoma. ^{[3] [4]}

Practical guidance for lowering melanoma risk

• Sun safety: Consistently use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), wear protective clothing, seek shade, and avoid peak sun (10 a.m.–4 p.m.) when possible. ^{[3] [4]}
• Skip indoor tanning: Tanning beds emit concentrated UV radiation and increase skin cancer risk. ^[8]
• Skin awareness: Perform monthly self-skin exams and consider periodic full-body skin checks with a dermatologist, especially if you have many or atypical moles, fair skin, or a family history of melanoma. ^[8]
• Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet and overall cardiovascular health are beneficial, and drinking green tea in moderation can be part of a healthy routine, but it should not replace proven sun protection strategies. ^[2]

Safety notes about green tea

• Moderate intake is generally safe, but concentrated extracts can occasionally cause liver toxicity; caution is advised with high-dose supplements, and people with certain conditions (e.g., stomach ulcers) may need to avoid or limit use. ^[9] Some drug interactions with green tea extracts have been documented in other contexts, so it’s reasonable to discuss supplements with your clinician if you take prescription medications. ^[10]

Bottom line

• There is currently no high-quality clinical evidence that drinking green tea prevents melanoma, although lab studies show anti-melanoma activity of its polyphenols. ^{[1] [5]} The most effective and reliable way to reduce melanoma risk is vigilant UV protection and skin monitoring. ^{[3] [4]}

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Table: Evidence snapshot on green tea and melanoma

• Domain: Laboratory/Animal

  • Summary: EGCG inhibits melanoma cell growth and migration via inflammasome, IL‑1β, NF‑κB, COX‑2 pathways.
  • Takeaway: Biologically promising, not proof of prevention in humans.
  • Key sources: ^{[5] [6]}

• Domain: Human studies

  • Summary: Reviews and limited trials show inconsistent benefits for cancer prevention; melanoma-specific prevention not established.
  • Takeaway: No clear evidence for melanoma risk reduction.
  • Key sources: ^{[1] [7] [2]}

• Domain: Clinical recommendations

  • Summary: Green tea may be part of a healthy diet, but melanoma prevention relies on UV avoidance and protection.
  • Takeaway: Prioritize sun safety and skin checks.
  • Key sources: ^{[3] [4] [8]}