Processed meat linked to stomach cancer

ISLAMABAD: Eating processed meat and being overweight increase the risk of developing stomach cancers according to a major new scientific report.

Scientists systematically gathered and analyzed data relating to stomach cancer after which a panel of leading international experts evaluated the results independently.

The authors found strong evidence that certain products increase the risk of stomach cancer and specifically eating foods preserved, using salt and consuming meat processed by smoking, curing salting or by adding preservatives such as ham bacon pastrami and salami hot dogs and some sausages.

The findings further mentions that if a person eats two strips of bacon each day every day or about 1.8 ounces of processed meat the risk goes up by 18%.

Strong evidence also suggests that people whose body mass index (BMI) classifies them as overweight or obese are at greater risk of cardio stomach cancer. The risk appears to increase by 23% for every five BMI units. Excess body fat is now associated with 11 types of cancer.

There are signs that consuming grilled or barbecued meat and fish contribute to the risk whereas consuming fruit and especially citrus fruit may help prevent stomach cancer.

The researchers’ calls on people to maintain a healthy weight, keep physically active eat a healthy diet and limit or avoid alcohol consumption.