The death of 25-year-old Chinese influencer Qianqian has sparked concern among medical professionals and the public. The young woman died from stomach cancer, and doctors suggest that her prolonged consumption of extremely spicy food may have contributed to the disease.
For seven years, Qianqian produced popular video content in which she regularly consumed large portions of extremely spicy meals — from chili pepper noodles to raw hot peppers with high capsaicin content. This style of eating became a signature part of her online presence and gained her millions of followers.
After her death, doctors in China and abroad issued warnings regarding the health risks associated with frequent consumption of spicy food. According to medical experts, such eating habits can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract. Spicy food is known to:
- irritate the lining of the stomach,
- promote chronic inflammation,
- increase gastric acid secretion,
- trigger erosions and ulcers,
- and in genetically predisposed individuals, accelerate the development of cancerous mutations.
Capsaicin, the active compound in chili peppers, can have harmful effects when consumed in large quantities and over extended periods. It acts as a strong irritant, especially for those already suffering from digestive disorders or with a family history of cancer.
Doctors recommend moderation in consuming spicy foods and advise seeking medical attention in cases of persistent stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, or other gastrointestinal symptoms.
