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Cancer research

Processed Junk Food Linked to Higher Risk of Cancer

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

An international research team has found a link between the consumption of ultra-processed foods and a higher risk of lung cancer. The study, which tracked the health and diet of over 100,000 Americans, found that those who consumed the highest amounts of ultra-processed foods were 41% more likely to develop lung cancer compared to those who consumed the least.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that individuals who consumed the highest amounts of ultra-processed foods were 41% more likely to develop lung cancer compared to those who consumed the least.
  • The types of ultra-processed foods consumed most were processed meats, soft drinks, and baked goods.
  • Brits consume a greater proportion of ultra-processed foods than any nation apart from the US, with estimates suggesting they make up more than half of the average UK citizen's diet.
  • The study adjusted for smoking status, but not smoking intensity, and noted that causality cannot be determined due to the observational nature of the study.
  • A quarter of lung cancer cases occur in non-smokers, highlighting the need for research exploring other factors associated with lung cancer.
  • Ultra-processed foods typically contain unhealthy artificial additives to boost flavor and shelf life, including emulsifiers, sweeteners, stabilising gums, flavor compounds, and coloring agents.
  • Previous research has suggested that people who eat more ultra-processed foods are 24% more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.
  • Lung cancer is the most common cancer in the world, with an estimated 2.2 million new cases and 1.8 million deaths from the disease worldwide in 2020.

Statistics:

  • 41% higher risk of lung cancer among individuals who consumed the highest amounts of ultra-processed foods compared to those who consumed the least.
  • 100,000+ Americans tracked in the study for an average of 12 years.
  • 1,706 people developed lung cancer during the study.
  • 2.2 million new cases of lung cancer worldwide in 2020.
  • 1.8 million deaths from lung cancer worldwide in 2020.
  • Average study participant consumed approximately three servings of ultra-processed foods per day.
  • Consumption of ultra-processed foods ranged from half a portion per day to six servings per day among study participants.

Sources:

  • Wang et al. (2023) "Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Lung Cancer Risk: An Exploratory Study" published in the Journal of Thorax.
  • Wang, K. et al. (2023). "Ultra-processed foods and cancer risk: an overview." Obesity Reviews.
  • Statista (2022). "Cancer types with the highest incidence rates worldwide in 2020."

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