Latest news with #SCLC
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
6 days ago
- Health
- First Post
Ditch that soda and noodles. The lung cancer link to ultra-processed foods
A study in the Thorax journal reveals that those consuming ultra-processed foods like fast food and sugary drinks have a 41 per cent higher risk of developing lung cancer compared to those who ate the least. The study analysed data of over 100,000 Americans aged 55 to 74, who were tracked for more than a decade read more We've known for a while that our go-to ultra-processed foods, like fast food, sugary drinks, and instant meals, aren't exactly the best for our health. They're often linked to heart problems and metabolic issues. But now, a new study points to another worrying connection. These foods might also raise the risk of lung cancer. Published in the journal Thorax, the research found that people who ate the most ultra-processed foods had a 41 per cent higher risk of developing lung cancer compared to those who ate the least. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD So, what counts as ultra-processed food? And how could it be linked to cancer? Here's what we know about the new study. But first, what are ultra-processed foods? Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrially manufactured products made from a combination of refined ingredients and additives. They are designed to be hyper-palatable, convenient, and have a long shelf life. Unlike minimally processed foods, UPFs are made mostly from substances extracted from foods, such as fats, starches, added sugars, and unhealthy fats, rather than the whole food itself. They undergo extensive alterations and typically contain artificial substances like emulsifiers, preservatives, colourants, and sweeteners. As a result, UPFs tend to be calorie-dense but low in essential nutrients and fibre, making them nutritionally poor despite their appealing taste. Rows of ultraprocessed potato chips are placed at a convenience store in Boston. File image/AP In the UK and US, more than half of the average diet consists of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which include frozen meals, soft drinks, hot dogs and cold cuts, fast food, packaged cookies, cakes, and salty snacks. What does the new study reveal? The study draws data from the US Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial, which followed over 100,000 Americans aged 55 to 74. Participants enrolled between 1993 and 2001, and their health was tracked for more than a decade. Out of 101,732 people who filled out food questionnaires at the start, researchers categorised their diets based on how processed the foods were, with a special focus on ultra-processed foods (UPFs) like lunch meats, soft drinks, ice cream, baked goods, instant noodles, and fast food. Researchers believe rising global consumption of UPFs could be contributing to the growing burden of diseases, such as cancer. Image for Representation. Reuters On average, people consumed nearly three servings of UPFs a day, with some having up to six. Over 12 years, 1,706 lung cancer cases were diagnosed, including both non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Even after accounting for factors like smoking and diet quality, those who ate the most UPFs had a 37 per cent higher risk of NSCLC and a 44 per cent higher risk of SCLC. The researchers believe rising global consumption of UPFs could be contributing to the growing burden of diseases, such as cancer and stressed the need for more research to confirm these findings across diverse populations. 'Over the past two decades, consumption of ultra-processed foods has significantly increased worldwide, regardless of development or economic status,' the authors wrote. This rise may be driving global increases in obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, they added. How might heavily processed foods increase cancer risk? Researchers believe one reason is that ultra-processed foods often replace healthier options, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, that may help protect against cancer. When diets become dominated by UPFs, there's simply less room for the good stuff. There's also growing concern about the additives and chemicals found in these products. Ingredients like emulsifiers, preservatives, artificial colours, and acrolein (a toxic compound also found in tobacco smoke) may lead to inflammation, disrupt hormones, damage DNA, and upset the gut microbiome. The packaging materials used for many of these foods can also be a source of risk. Chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, commonly found in food containers and wrappers, may leach into the food and have been linked to health issues, the study noted. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD So, what can you do? Nutritionist Rob Hobson, author of Unprocess Your Family Life, told The Independent that it's less about blaming specific foods and more about c 'That might mean cooking more from scratch where possible, adding in more whole foods like vegetables, beans and grains, or just becoming more aware of how often UPFs show up in your day,' he said Also read: What is fibremaxxing, the new diet trend taking over social media? How safe is it? Making small, sustainable changes will help you gradually replace junk food with more nutritious, whole foods Image for Representation. Pixabay 'It's not about being perfect, it's about balance and understanding how your food choices could be supporting or undermining your long-term health.' In short, cutting back on ultra-processed foods doesn't require a complete lifestyle overhaul. But being mindful of how often these foods appear on your plate, and gradually replacing them with more nutritious, whole foods, can go a long way in supporting better health. With input from agencies
Newsweek
03-08-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
Processed Food May Raise Lung Cancer Chances—Scientists
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A new large-scale study has found that people who consume higher amounts of ultra-processed foods (UPF) face a significantly increased risk of developing lung cancer. Published in the medical journal Thorax, researchers from Chongqing University in China analyzed the dietary patterns of over 100,000 adults and found that those with the highest intake of UPF had a 41 percent greater chance of being diagnosed with the disease. Newsweek contacted the American Lung Association for comment via email on Sunday. Why It Matters Processed food has already been linked to numerous chronic health conditions, including obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. This new research adds lung cancer to the growing list of serious health concerns associated with the modern industrial diet. With UPF making up a substantial portion of many people's daily intake, the findings raise urgent public health questions about food quality, regulation, and long-term health outcomes. Stock image of a selection of ultra-processed-foods. Stock image of a selection of To Know The study drew on data from the U.S. Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial, following more than 100,000 adults aged between 55 and 74 over a period of 12 years. Among participants, those in the highest quartile of UPF intake faced a markedly higher risk of developing lung cancer, even after researchers adjusted for smoking, socioeconomic status, and other lifestyle factors. UPF in the study included packaged snacks, instant noodles, sweetened beverages, processed meats, frozen meals, and industrial baked goods. Notably, the increased risk applied to both major forms of the disease, non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer (NSCLC and SCLC). The researchers found that even after accounting for smoking, which remains the leading cause of lung cancer, diet remained an independent risk factor. The study concluded that higher consumption of UPF is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, NSCLC, and SCLC. Although additional research in other populations and settings is warranted, these findings suggest the health benefits of limiting intake. Public health experts have long warned that UPF, while convenient and inexpensive, carry long-term health risks that are often underestimated. Critics point out that these foods are not only nutrient-poor, but often high in sugar, sodium, and additives that may interfere with normal metabolic and immune functions. BMJ Group, publisher of the British Medical Journal, noted that as this is an observational study, "no firm conclusions can be drawn about cause and effect," with researchers unable to factor in smoking intensity, which may have been influential. "In addition, dietary information was collected only once, so couldn't account for changes over time, and the number of cancer diagnoses was small." Although the study was observational and cannot confirm a direct cause-and-effect relationship, researchers said the strength of the association warrants serious attention. Some experts, however, cautioned against drawing firm conclusions from observational data alone, urging further research to explore underlying mechanisms. What People Are Saying Kevin McConway, emeritus professor of applied statistics at The Open University, per Science Media Center: "It's yet another of a class of studies about ultra-processed foods that, in my view, are doing nothing much to advance what is known about associations between the consumption of UPFs and human health. "I'm well aware that studies with other kinds of methodology are going on—I just wish that researchers would concentrate more on those other types of research, instead of repeatedly cranking the handle of doing studies like this one." What Happens Next The study may intensify calls for clearer food labeling, public education campaigns, and stronger policy action to reduce the dominance of UPF in the global food supply. Future studies could examine specific ingredients and production processes to determine what aspects of UPF may contribute most to cancer risk. In the meantime, health authorities are likely to renew efforts to promote diets based on minimally processed, whole foods—such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins—as a way to reduce cancer and other chronic disease risks.
Mint
03-08-2025
- Health
- Mint
Ultra-processed foods linked to higher lung cancer risk, study finds—Here's what you need to know
A new study finds that high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is associated with a 41% increased risk of lung cancer, including both NSCLC and SCLC subtypes. The large-scale analysis of over 101,000 US adults over 12 years showed the link was independent of smoking and overall diet quality. Eating a lot of ultra-processed foods—like packaged snacks, sodas, and ready meals—may raise your risk of lung cancer by up to 41%, even if you don't smoke or eat healthy otherwise, the study shows. The new study published in Thorax reveals that high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) is linked to a significantly increased risk of lung cancer — including both non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) subtypes. This association was found to be independent of other risk factors, such as smoking status and overall diet quality. The study, based on more than 100,000 US adults followed over 12 years, found a 41% increased risk of lung cancer among those who consumed the most UPFs. UPFs are industrial formulations made predominantly from substances extracted from foods or synthesized chemically, containing additives, preservatives, and flavor enhancers, with minimal or no intact whole foods. Their widespread consumption, particularly in Western diets—where over half of the daily caloric intake comprises UPFs—raises concerns about their long-term health impacts. In a large-scale study, researchers have found a significant link between higher consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and an increased risk of developing lung cancer. This association was found to be independent of other risk factors, such as smoking status and overall diet quality. The research, which analysed data from over 101,000 adults over a mean follow-up period of 12.2 years, revealed the following statistics: There were a total of 1,706 new cases of lung cancer identified during the study period. Individuals in the highest quarter for UPF consumption had a 41% higher risk of developing lung cancer compared to those in the lowest quarter. This finding was statistically significant and held true even after adjusting for a wide range of variables. For NSCLC, those with the highest UPF consumption had a 37% higher risk. For SCLC, this risk was even higher, at 44%.
Time of India
31-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Americans eating ultra-processed foods like bread, soda, and noodles at higher risk of lung cancer, says new study
A large-scale US study has found that people who consume the highest amounts of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are 41 per cent more likely to develop lung cancer than those who eat the least. This food category already makes up more than half of the average diet in the UK and the US. Published in the peer-reviewed journal Thorax , the study drew on data from the US Prostate , Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trials, which tracked 101,732 adults aged 55 to 74 over a decade. Also Read: Burger King menu change adds 4 cold foam coffees and 2 real juice sips; see flavors and calorie counts by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Learn More - How Donating Sperm May Support Your Income SpellRock Undo Researchers assessed their diets, categorizing foods from minimally processed to ultra-processed, and monitored cancer diagnoses until 2009 and deaths until 2018. Live Events UPFs, defined as industrially manufactured foods high in additives, preservatives, flavour enhancers, and low in nutritional value, include everyday items like sour cream, ice cream, instant noodles, breakfast cereals, soft drinks, frozen meals, and shop-bought pizzas. During the follow-up, 1,706 participants were diagnosed with lung cancer, 1,473 with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and 233 with small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Even after accounting for known risk factors such as smoking and general diet quality, the risk of NSCLC was 37 per cent higher, and SCLC was 44 per cent higher among those who consumed the most UPFs. The researchers noted that while the study was observational and cannot prove causation, the findings contribute to a growing body of evidence. A 2024 BMJ meta-analysis had already linked UPFs to 32 adverse health outcomes, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, poor mental health, and early mortality. Experts point to how UPFs alter the food matrix and may introduce harmful chemicals during processing or through packaging. Substances like acrolein, a toxic compound also found in cigarette smoke, can form in grilled sausages and caramelized products. While speaking to The Independent, Nutritionist Rob Hobson said the findings are a reminder of how the modern food environment prioritizes cheap, convenient, and aggressively marketed products. 'It's not about being perfect,' he added, 'but about making small shifts, cooking more from scratch, adding more whole foods, and becoming more aware of the UPFs in your diet.'
Time of India
31-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
THIS common diet can increase the risk of lung cancer
W Tired of too many ads? go ad free now hat you eat really matters. While some foods can act as medicine and boost your health, others can cause irreversible damage. Certain foods have also been linked to cancer risks. A new study found that a certain diet may significantly increase the risk of lung cancer. According to a new study published in the journal , a certain diet can increase the risk of lung cancer by about 41%. Diet and lung cancer In 2022, 2.48 million new cases were reported, with 1.8 million deaths, and it was the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. While certain lifestyle factors influence the risk of lung cancer, diet has a major role. The new study has found that a higher intake of ultra-processed foods (UPF) may significantly increase the risk of lung cancer. Though further studies are required to confirm the association, the experts have suggested reducing the intake of UPFs to lessen the global burden of lung cancer. Ultra-processed foods are linked with many chronic illnesses. These foods undergo multiple industrial processing steps, are loaded with additives, and are typically ready-to-eat or heat. To understand the link between UPFs and lung cancer, the researchers analyzed data from the US based Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening , which involved over 155,000 participants between the ages of 55 and 74. Of those, 101,732 people completed dietary questionnaires and were included in the study. Based on their dietary habits, they were categorised as: unprocessed or minimally processed; containing processed culinary ingredients; processed; and ultra-processed. The researchers focused in particular on UPF that included sour cream, as well as cream cheese, ice cream, frozen yoghurt, fried foods, bread, baked goods, salted snacks, breakfast cereals, instant noodles, shop-bought soups and sauces, margarine, confectionery, soft drinks, sweetened fruit drinks, restaurant/shop-bought hamburgers, hot dogs, and pizza. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The findings (Pic courtesy: iStock) The average daily UPF intake was nearly three servings per person. These were lunch meats (11%), diet or caffeinated soft drinks (just over 7%), and decaffeinated soft drinks (nearly 7%). Over an average follow-up period of 12 years, 1,706 new cases of were diagnosed, including 1,473 cases of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and 233 cases of small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The researchers found that people who consumed the most UPFs reported a higher number of cases, and less in those who consumed less UPFs (495/25,434 vs 331/25,433). People who consumed more UPFs were 41% more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer than those in the lowest quarter. They were 37% more likely to be diagnosed with NSCLC and 44% more likely to be diagnosed with SCLC. 'Worse still, over the past two decades, the consumption of UPF has significantly increased worldwide, regardless of development or economic status. The rise in UPF consumption may have driven global increases in obesity, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, cancer, and mortality, as these foods are confirmed risk factors for such conditions,' the researchers said. Top foods to prevent lung cancer 'Industrial processing alters the food matrix, affecting nutrient availability and absorption, while also generating harmful contaminants,' they add, highlighting acrolein, which is found in grilled sausages and caramel sweets, and is a toxic component of cigarette smoke. Packaging materials may also have a role to play. These findings need to be confirmed by other large-scale longitudinal studies in different populations and settings. If causality is established, limiting trends of UPF intake globally could contribute to reducing the burden of lung cancer,' they added.
