Artificial Sweetener-Sweetened Beverages as a Biomolecular Carcinogenic Agent: Experimental Evidence from 147 Cancer Patients

Background: Artificial sweetener–containing sugary beverages (AS-SBs) are ubiquitous; their biomolecular impact on carcinogenesis remains debated. Objective: To experimentally investigate the mutagenic effects of daily AS-SB intake on cancer cell mutation profiles and patient habits in Indonesian cities. Methods: We enrolled 147 cancer patients (ages 8–50) with daily consumption of AS-SBs, across Ambon, Makassar, Ternate, and Manado between 12 January 2024 and March 2025. Laboratory assays analyzed mutational profiles of cancer cells; structured interviews captured consumption patterns. Results: AS-SB intake significantly increased oncogenic mutation markers and cell proliferation versus controls. Behavioral and molecular data correlated with dosage and duration. Conclusions: Frequent intake of AS-SBs may enhance carcinogenic cell mutation and proliferation in young–middle-aged cancer patients in Indonesia.