Читать книгу Fundamentals of Cancer Detection, Treatment, and Prevention - Surya K. De - Страница 69

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), processed meats like hot dog, ham, bacon, sausage, and some deli meats can cause cancer (Figure 2.5). Their carcinogenic effect is related to these foods being treated in some way to preserve or flavor them, such as by salting, curing, fermenting, or smoking.

Figure 2.5 Processed foods cause cancer.

Source: Pixel‐Shot/Adobe Stock

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Salt‐cured fish, popular in China, is high in nitrates and nitrites, which have been shown to be carcinogens in animal testing and may cause cancer in humans. These chemical compounds can damage DNA, leading to cancers of the head and neck.

Furthermore, the WHO has reported that any kind of red meat may be linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. There are studies suggesting red meat contributes to pancreatic and prostate cancers, although the evidence is not as conclusive.