A new study published in the British Journal of Cancer has found a potential association between the intake of ultra-processed foods and the risk of developing cancer. Researchers from Imperial College London and University of California, San Francisco analyzed data from 6,000+ participants in the UK Biobank and discovered a strong link between processed food consumption and various forms of cancer, including breast, prostate, and lung cancer, among others.
Processed foods, which are defined as foods that have undergone significant structural and/or chemical changes from edible natural products, have long been known to contribute to poor dietary habits, obesity, and related health issues. This study is the first to establish a link between high processed food intake and cancer risk. The results indicate that people who eat predominantly ultra-processed foods have a 10-11% higher risk of overall cancer incidence compared to those who consume these foods less frequently.
The research also found correlations between ultra-processed food consumption and individual cancers. A 14% higher risk of breast cancer, a 13% higher risk of lung cancer, and a 11% higher risk of colorectal cancer were discovered in individuals with higher processed food intake. While the organization behind the study is quick to mention that these figures are modest in nature, they do emphasize the importance of assessing the impact of processed foods on overall health.
Ultra-processed foods include items such as ready meals, sugary drinks, packaged snacks, and frozen dinners, among others. These products often contain additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients that, when consumed often, may contribute to adverse health effects. The authors of the study suggest that regulating and limiting the consumption of ultra-processed foods may help mitigate the patients’ risk of cancer.
However, the authors acknowledge the limitations of the study and emphasize the need for further research to establish a conclusive cause-and-effect link between processed foods and cancer risk. They argue that more large-scale studies need to be carried out to establish the exact nature of this relationship and provide a clearer picture on how to create healthier dietary habits.
