Photo: MilanEXPO / E+ / Getty Images
A new study has found that eating just one extra serving of processed meat a day may raise the risk of developing certain cancers in the upper digestive tract. The research, conducted by the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC), tracked the diets and health outcomes of more than 450,000 people across Europe over an average of 14 years. The study specifically examined cancers of the stomach and esophagus, areas where the relationship with processed meat had been less well understood until now.
The findings show that for every additional 30 grams of processed meat consumed daily—about the size of one slice of deli ham—the overall risk of stomach cancer increased by nine percent, and the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma rose by 13 percent. The research also found that an extra 20 grams of white meat, such as chicken or turkey, was linked to a 12 percent higher risk of cancer in the main body of the stomach.
There were differences between men and women in the results. For men, only processed meat consumption was clearly linked to higher stomach cancer risk. For women, eating both processed and white meats was associated with increased risk. These results align with global health guidance from organizations like the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, which already classifies processed meat as a known carcinogen, especially due to its link to colorectal cancer.
The American Institute for Cancer Research notes that even small amounts of processed meat eaten regularly can increase cancer risk, particularly because chemicals used in processing—such as nitrates and nitrites—can form compounds known to cause cancer. The institute recommends minimizing all forms of processed meat for cancer prevention.
The study authors caution that their research relied on self-reported dietary information, which can sometimes be inaccurate. They also point out that further investigation is needed to confirm these findings and to consider other risk factors, such as genetic predisposition or stomach infections.
Scientists say more research will be needed to fully understand how processed and white meats interact with other lifestyle and genetic factors to influence cancer risk. In the meantime, health experts suggest limiting processed meats as a precaution.