Obesity may not be the sole factor contributing to the increased risk of cancers but consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) pose higher risk of cancers in the upper aero digestive tract, according to a recent study from the University of Bristol and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
BEYOND OBESITY: EXAMINING FACTORS BEYOND BODY FAT
Contrary to previous assumptions linking obesity to UPFs, the study, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, suggests that obesity may not be the sole factor contributing to the increased risk of cancers. The research analyzed data from 450,111 adults over approximately 14 years and explored whether the association between UPF consumption and head and neck cancer could be explained solely by an increase in body fat.
UPF CONSUMPTION AND CANCER RISK
Results from the study indicate that a 10% increase in UPF consumption is associated with a 23% higher risk of head and neck cancer and a 24% higher risk of oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Notably, increased body fat explains only a small portion of this statistical association, challenging previous assumptions regarding the link between UPFs and cancer risk.
POTENTIAL MECHANISMS: BEYOND BODY FAT
While previous studies focused on the link between UPFs and excess weight, this study suggests that other mechanisms may contribute to the association. Additives such as emulsifiers and artificial sweeteners, along with contaminants from food packaging and the manufacturing process, are proposed as potential contributors to the increased cancer risk observed in individuals consuming higher amounts of UPFs.
CAUTIONARY NOTE AND FURTHER RESEARCH
The authors acknowledge the need for caution in interpreting the findings, recognizing potential biases that may affect the associations. They highlight the importance of further research, emphasizing the examination of contemporary dietary habits, as the data used were collected in the 1990s when UPF consumption was relatively low.
IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER PREVENTION
Dr. Helen Croker, Assistant Director of Research and Policy at World Cancer Research Fund, notes that the study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting a link between UPFs and cancer risk. The association between higher UPF consumption and an increased risk of developing upper aero digestive tract cancer aligns with cancer prevention recommendations advocating for a healthy diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruit, and beans.
